Cailabs US Inc., a subsidiary of the French photonics company Cailabs SAS, will relocate its U.S. headquarters from Washington, D.C. to Arlington County, Virginia. The move includes an investment of $300,000 and is expected to create 16 new jobs in the Commonwealth.
The company has secured 4,200 square feet of Class A office space at 1530 Wilson Boulevard in Arlington’s North Rosslyn neighborhood. Cailabs specializes in designing and manufacturing advanced laser-light products used across defense, aerospace, telecommunications, and manufacturing industries.
Governor Glenn Youngkin commented on the announcement: “Cailabs’ decision to relocate their U.S. headquarters to Virginia shows that the Commonwealth remains the premier location for global tech companies looking to expand their footprint in the Americas. Virginia’s exceptional talent, reliable infrastructure, and proximity to key federal and defense partners gives companies like Cailabs a strategic advantage as they continue to innovate and expand. The Commonwealth is proud to support Cailabs’ mission of paving the way to a bright future with the power of lasers.”
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura added: “When Cailabs first decided to open a U.S. office, they chose Washington. Two years later, when they decided to stay in the US, they chose Virginia. That decision speaks volumes. Logistically, economically, and strategically, Virginia remains the ideal location for tech companies looking to push boundaries and build a thriving business.”
Jeff Huggins, President of Cailabs US Inc., stated: “We are excited to locate in Virginia for this next phase of our growth, reflecting the continuing opportunities in the U.S. market for optical ground stations. With thousands of satellites now on orbit with petabits of data flowing in space, the demand to bring that data down at the gigabit speeds available with optical ground stations is driving significant expansion here in the U.S. market.”
Founded in 2013 with headquarters in Rennes, France, Cailabs produces technology such as optical ground stations for satellite communications and components used for high-speed fiber internet infrastructure.
Arlington County Board Chair Takis Karantonis welcomed the move: “Arlington cordially says ‘Bienvenue’ to Cailabs on their decision to establish their U.S. headquarters in Rosslyn, at the heart of our nation’s capital region. By choosing Arlington, Cailabs joins a community where the nation’s best-prepared, innovative and talented workforce meets exceptional quality of life in an open, welcoming and forward-thinking culture. We are excited to add a leading new technology business to the dense fabric of transatlantic partnerships that connect, strengthen and advance economies, people and values. We look forward to seeing Cailabs grow and succeed here in Arlington.”
Senator Barbara Favola also expressed support: “I’m delighted that Cailabs has chosen to relocate its U.S. headquarters to Arlington County,” said Senator Barbara Favola.“Arlington has leveraged the investments made by the Commonwealth to create a 21st century workforce. In addition to proximity to major airports and our nation’s capital, Arlington offers a world class public education system, great transit options, and a park in every neighborhood. I am sure that Cailabs will feel ‘right at home’ in the diverse and caring Arlington community.”
The relocation was facilitated by collaboration between Arlington County officials and The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). VEDP will assist with job creation through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which supports recruitment and training activities for expanding businesses by reducing human resource costs.
