KEY TAKEAWAYS: Gulf Coast Tactical will invest $6.1 million to expand its New Iberia manufacturing facility. The project will create 65 direct jobs and an estimated 72 indirect jobs across Acadiana. The expansion will increase production of unmanned surface vehicles and other maritime defense platforms. Louisiana is supporting the project with LED FastStart, a $500,000 equipment grant and tax incentive programs.   Gulf Coast Tactical will invest $6.1 million to expand its New Iberia manufacturing operations, increasing production of advanced maritime vessels and creating 65 direct jobs as demand grows for defense and autonomous marine technology. The Louisiana-based company announced the expansion Tuesday, saying the investment will strengthen its fabrication, assembly, systems integration and testing capabilities for unmanned surface vehicles, patrol craft and other maritime platforms used in defense and security operations. The project is expected to create 65 new direct jobs with an average annual salary of $80,000, about 40% higher than the average wage in Iberia Parish, while retaining 16 existing positions. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the expansion also will generate 72 indirect jobs, bringing the total projected employment impact to 137 jobs across the Acadiana region. Operations are expanding at the company’s facility at the Port of Iberia, with phased growth expected over the next 12 to 24 months. State officials said the investment reinforces Louisiana’s position as a hub for maritime manufacturing and defense technology. “Louisiana’s maritime industry has supported generations of skilled manufacturing and defense operations, and companies like Gulf Coast Tactical are helping carry that legacy forward through next-generation technology and innovation,” Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “This expansion reinforces Louisiana’s leadership in maritime manufacturing as global demand grows for advanced defense and autonomous vessel capabilities.” The expanded facility will support production of unmanned surface vehicles, aluminum patrol boats and other mission-specific watercraft for domestic and international customers. According to the company, the investment will also enhance development of autonomous vessel technologies, including modular payloads, communications systems and sensors designed to support future AI-enabled maritime capabilities. “Gulf Coast Tactical is proud to expand our operations in Louisiana, a state that offers unmatched access to skilled labor, critical waterways and a strong industrial base,” President Jeff LeLeux said. “This project represents a significant step forward in our mission to deliver advanced maritime solutions while creating high-quality jobs and strengthening the region’s role in national and international security.” Founded in Louisiana, Gulf Coast Tactical operates from the Port of Iberia and specializes in manufacturing advanced maritime vessels for defense, law enforcement and commercial applications. The company said its broader maritime network has delivered more than 400 vessels worldwide. To secure the project, Louisiana offered the company a competitive incentives package that includes workforce training through LED FastStart, a $500,000 performance-based equipment grant, and eligibility for the state’s Industrial Tax Exemption and High Impact Jobs programs. Local economic development leaders said the project strengthens Acadiana’s growing advanced manufacturing and maritime sectors while positioning Iberia Parish to attract additional defense-related investment. The expansion follows increasing demand for autonomous maritime systems as governments and commercial customers invest in next-generation technologies for security, surveillance and maritime operations. ...read more read less