Novartis has announced the opening of a new 10,000-square-foot radioligand therapy (RLT) manufacturing facility in Carlsbad, California — a major step in the company’s $23 billion, five-year investment plan to expand its U.S. infrastructure.
The state-of-the-art site will strengthen Novartis’ ability to meet growing demand for radioligand therapies, adding significant manufacturing capacity and bolstering its domestic supply chain. The facility has been filed with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an additional point of supply, with commercial production expected to begin upon approval.
Radioligand therapies represent a cutting-edge approach to precision oncology, combining a tumor-targeting molecule with a radioactive isotope to deliver radiation directly to cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. Because of their short half-life, RLT doses must be produced and delivered swiftly — making proximity to treatment centers critical.
“At Novartis, we tackle the toughest challenges in medicine by doing what’s never been done before for patients,” said Vas Narasimhan, CEO of Novartis. “The opening of our Carlsbad facility underscores our strong commitment to the U.S. and dedication to bringing this pioneering treatment to patients across the country.”
The Carlsbad site becomes Novartis’ third RLT manufacturing facility in the U.S., reinforcing its position as the global leader in radioligand therapies. It is designed to produce FDA-approved RLTs with room for future expansion.
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary praised the initiative, saying, “We commend Novartis for supporting our broader mission of bringing manufacturing capacity in the United States. Our unique partnership approach is working.”
Local leaders also welcomed the investment. “This new advanced RLT production facility is a major milestone for our region, strengthening California’s position as a hub for life sciences innovation,” said Carlsbad City Council Member Melanie Burkholder.
In addition to the Carlsbad site, Novartis is building two more RLT facilities in Florida and Texas, expanding existing manufacturing plants in North Carolina, Indiana, and New Jersey, and establishing a new global R&D hub in San Diego.
Altogether, the company plans to invest nearly $50 billion in its U.S. operations over the next five years — signaling a deep, long-term commitment to advancing healthcare innovation and cancer treatment infrastructure across the country.