LS Cable & System Ltd. has announced a $689 million investment in Chesapeake, Virginia, marking what is expected to be the largest capital investment in the history of the Hampton Roads region. The project, undertaken through three subsidiaries of LS C&S, is set to create over 430 new jobs and establish a domestic supply chain for magnetic copper wire and rare earth magnets.
The initiative aims to reduce reliance on Chinese suppliers by creating an alternative supply source for materials essential to advanced weapons systems such as Javelin missiles, F-35 fighter jets, nuclear submarines, and unmanned aerial vehicles. The manufacturing complex will include copper rod production with recycling and smelting capabilities, magnet wire manufacturing for automotive and industrial markets, and rare-earth magnet production for electric motors and defense applications.
Governor Glenn Youngkin stated, “Thank you to LS Cable & System for choosing Virginia again. Today’s announcement demonstrates that Virginia is leading the nation in reshoring American manufacturing and securing the critical supply chains that power and protect our country. LS GreenLink has already brought hundreds of millions of dollars to Hampton Roads, and these three projects from LS Cable & System will build on that momentum. Now more than ever on the geopolitical stage, access to copper smelting and rare earth minerals tied to our targeting systems that our military uses need to be made here in this country. I’m proud that Virginia is partnering with LS C&S to strengthen American manufacturing, create great jobs, and build a stronger, more secure future for the Commonwealth and our nation.”
This new project expands upon LS GreenLink USA’s previously announced cable manufacturing facility in Chesapeake which began construction earlier in 2025. While separate from LS GreenLink USA’s efforts, this latest investment further reinforces LS C&S’s commitment to growing its presence in Virginia.
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura commented: “With three exciting projects in Chesapeake, LS Cable & System is poised to transform America’s tech manufacturing supply chain. Securing these supply chains does more than ensure smooth manufacturing timelines; it helps safeguard our national security. LS C&S’s continued investment in the Commonwealth shows that when government moves at the speed of business, big things can happen quickly.”
LS C&S President and CEO Bon-Kyu Koo said: “This investment represents an exciting step in our continuing growth in the United States. We’re not only expanding our manufacturing capabilities, we’re strengthening the U.S. domestic supply chains and supporting America’s leadership in energy and technology. By continuing partnerships with the Commonwealth of Virginia, the City of Chesapeake, and the Hampton Roads region, we’re creating opportunities for the local community while helping to ensure secure, reliable infrastructure that supports national security and the nation’s energy future.”
Regional President Gisu Kim noted: “The LS GreenLink project has been a major commitment for LS C&S, and this new investment builds directly on that foundation. It strengthens domestic production of critical components such as copper rod, magnet wire, and rare-earth magnets, vital to reinforcing supply chain resilience and advancing U.S. energy independence.”
Managing Director Patrick Shim added: “This investment represents much more than expanding our manufacturing footprint in Chesapeake. We are deepening our partnership with the Commonwealth of Virginia, the City of Chesapeake, and the Hampton Roads region as we build capabilities that strengthen U.S. energy leadership, secure critical supply chains, and support industries essential to the nation’s security and future.”
Founded in 1962 with over 6,500 employees worldwide across 17 countries,LS Cable & System specializes in power transmission technologies.
Hampton Roads Alliance President Douglas L. Smith said: “Congratulations to LS Cable & System and the entire LS Group on another major investment in Chesapeake… Energy security is national security,” emphasizing alignment with regional priorities around defense energy sectors.
Chesapeake Mayor Rick West stated: “Today’s announcement marks a major milestone for Chesapeake… This investment is LS Cable’s second major project in Chesapeake,” noting both economic impact through job creation as well as advancement toward clean energy goals.
Chesapeake Economic Development Director Steven Wright said: “LS Cable’s $689 million investment solidifies Chesapeake’s position as a premier destination for advanced manufacturing… This project will bring skilled jobs to Chesapeake,” highlighting anticipated support for mobility technologies.
Port of Virginia CEO Stephen A. Edwards expressed readiness: “Advanced manufacturing facilities like LS Cable not only strengthen Virginia’s role in global trade but will help accelerate innovation…” referencing port infrastructure benefits.
To facilitate this project,the Virginia Economic Development Partnership collaborated with local entities.Governor Youngkin approved grants totaling $8.8 million, including incentives aimed at job creation through training programs ranked among America’s best by industry publications.The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program will provide customized workforce solutions at no cost as part of this effort.
