New Reston facility to create 100+ high-tech jobs and strengthen Virginia’s space and defense cluster
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — Umbra, a U.S.-based space technology company specializing in advanced remote sensing and resilient satellite systems, is expanding its Northern Virginia operations with a $6.75 million investment that will create more than 100 new high-tech jobs in Fairfax County.
The company will establish a new 20,000-square-foot office in Reston, complementing its existing headquarters in Arlington and further embedding Umbra in one of the nation’s fastest-growing space and defense corridors.
State and local leaders say the project reinforces Virginia’s competitive position in the national security and commercial space sectors.
“Umbra’s expansion in Fairfax County underscores Virginia’s growing role as a hub for the nation’s space and defense industries,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger. “By adding new space in Reston to support more than 100 new Virginia jobs, Umbra is deepening its commitment to the Commonwealth and to the mission-critical work that keeps our nation secure. This investment reinforces Northern Virginia’s reputation as a cluster for advanced satellite systems, resilient space technologies, and world-class talent.”
Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery emphasized the strategic advantages of the region for space-related companies.
“The Commonwealth is home to one of the nation’s most dynamic space and defense ecosystems,” said Chenery. “Umbra’s expansion in Fairfax County gives the company access to a deep pool of technical and defense talent, as well as close proximity to customers, research partners, and federal decision-makers.”
Founded in 2015 in Santa Barbara, California, Umbra develops next-generation space systems ranging from sensors to full spacecraft. The company is known for its synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite constellation, capable of delivering industry-leading 25-centimeter resolution imagery for commercial and government customers worldwide. Umbra’s technology supports critical missions by providing reliable, high-resolution radar data in all weather and lighting conditions.
“As demand increases for high-performance, U.S.-built space systems, Umbra is proud to expand our operations in Northern Virginia,” said Umbra CEO David Langan. “This investment strengthens our ability to scale our workforce, recruit top regional talent, and continue delivering resilient systems faster and more cost-effectively. We’re grateful for our partnership with the Commonwealth of Virginia, and this marks an important step in our growth.”
Local officials highlighted Fairfax County’s emergence as a national space hub. Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay noted that the county is now home to more than 150 space-related companies, with many choosing to expand or relocate there in recent years.
“This momentum reflects the region’s deep talent pool, strong partnerships, and proximity to agencies shaping the future of space,” McKay said. “Umbra’s investment strengthens a community that understands both the responsibility and opportunity of supporting the nation’s space priorities.”
Delegate Karen Keys-Gamarra and Senator Jennifer Boysko also welcomed Umbra’s arrival in Reston, citing the company’s role in advancing technology-driven economic growth in the region.
The project was secured through a collaboration between the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) and the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority. Governor Spanberger approved a $500,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to support the expansion, while workforce training assistance will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.
With continued public-private collaboration and a concentration of aerospace, defense, and technology firms, Northern Virginia is solidifying its role as a key node in America’s space economy.
