Leonardo DRS

BUILDING FOR SUCCESS

Brinkmann successfully delivered a state-of-the-art 171,000-square-foot engineering, research and development facility for Leonardo DRS, a premier US-based defense contractor. This comprehensive project included complete site development and specialized interior tenant improvements tailored to support advanced defense technology innovation.

Location

Bridgeton, MO

Size

170,000

Facility Highlights

The best-in-class facility houses the majority of the Leonardo DRS business unit’s development and platform systems integration activities, featuring:

  • Advanced engineering workspaces
  • Specialized research laboratories
  • Defense technology development areas
  • Warehouse facilities
  • Administrative offices

Value Engineering Excellence

Through meticulous attention to detail and creative problem-solving, our team delivered significant cost savings:

  • Reduced the initial $1.4 million lighting specification to $700,000 through detailed fixture-by-fixture analysis
  • Engaged code consultants to optimize fire wall designs, resulting in $48,000 in savings while accelerating the construction schedule

Adaptive Project Management

Despite multiple challenges, including:

  • COVID-19 pandemic disruptions
  • Last-minute tenant-requested changes
  • Phased occupancy requirements for early furniture installation

Our team completed the project two weeks ahead of schedule. This achievement required exceptional coordination with local authorities having jurisdiction to secure temporary certificates of occupancy for each phase, enabling Leonardo DRS to begin furniture installation before building completion.
The project’s success demonstrates Brinkmann’s commitment to strategic communication, collaborative problem-solving, and delivering exceptional results even under challenging circumstances.