SAIC to Locate National Security Offshoot Leidos in Reston

Posted by William Callahan 

Tysons-based contracting giant Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) has chosen to locate Leidos, its national security, health and engineering solutions business, in Reston.

SAIC officials plan to split the company into two separate entitieslater this year or early next year. The government contractor will continue its government and information technology services under the SAIC moniker at its current Tysons headquarters on SAIC Drive in McLean.

Officials announced Tuesday that Leidos has signed a lease with Boston Properties for two office buildings at 11951 and 11955 Freedom Drive, known as One and Two Freedom Square, in Reston Town Center.

Approximately 150 employees will move to the new location immediately, while another 450 are expected to relocate as the buildings are renovated, according to SAIC.

“Reston makes sense for Leidos – it's easily accessible and the amenities are world class,” said SAIC COO Stu Shea, Leidos’ future president and COO. “The new facility will be more conveniently located for our employees and still gives us easy access to key customers in the area.”

SAIC announced earlier this year that it would also be selling the company’s 18-acre Tysons headquarters to Bethesda-based real estate firm the Meridian Group. The four-building campus will be renovated and SAIC will remain in one of the new buildings after the split is complete.

“SAIC has been a valued member of this business community for many, many years,” said Gerald Gordon, president and CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority. “Fairfax County is extremely proud to be the home of both the resultant corporate headquarters. 

"This is one of the companies that communities cherish as they bring not just jobs, but because they are amongst the absolute best corporate citizens in America.”