Burlington firm to add 250 jobs for Apache helicopter sensors

Burlington company PV Labs announced on Oct. 28 that it will create 250 new positions to manufacture a next-generation Pilot Night Vision Sensor. The new system is designed for Boeing-made Apache helicopters and will allow pilots to fly safely in darkness and adverse weather conditions.

The expansion is funded by an investment from Lockheed Martin. This funding stems from a federal policy that mandates defence contractors receiving Canadian contracts to invest in the local economy. Specifically, Lockheed Martin signed a deal with the Canadian government in Jan. 2026 to supply 26 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launchers, along with munitions, spare parts, and training services. Under the Industrial and Technological Benefits policy, Lockheed Martin directed capital to PV Labs to support this development.

PV Labs CEO Mark Chamberlain stated that the company currently employs approximately 55 people. He said the growth to more than 300 employees over the coming years will require a new facility. Chamberlain confirmed in an email that the company is reviewing site options within the Hamilton and Burlington region.

PV Labs currently operates from 1074 Cooke Blvd. That location, along with the adjacent property at 1062 Cooke Blvd., is approved for residential redevelopment. The approved plan calls for two mixed-use buildings, one 30 storeys high and the other 32 storeys high.

Ben Marklew, vice-president of global sales and business development at PV Labs, said the company is proud to partner with Lockheed Martin. He noted that the work will support aircrews using the Apache helicopter globally. Marklew described the contract as a milestone for the team and said it strengthens Canada’s defence and aerospace supply chain.

Marklew added that the investment creates a multi-year roadmap to design and develop the sensor. Neither PV Labs nor Lockheed Martin disclosed the specific dollar value of the investment by the deadline. A spokesperson for Canada’s Defence Investment Agency confirmed the project aligns with the firm’s obligations under the Jan. 2026 agreement.