Navistar to close Indy foundry; 180 jobs cut

Navistar International Corp. announced Monday it will close its foundry operations in Indianapolis next summer, eliminating about 180 jobs.

Lisle-based Navistar makes engine blocks and other components at the foundry. The company said it will buy these parts from suppliers.

“Over the last two years, we’ve taken a number of steps to strengthen our business and position the company for a return to profitability and long-term success,” Persio Lisboa, Navistar’s president of operations, said in a statement.

“Closing a facility is a difficult decision because of its impact on the many great people who’ve been part of our company. We will treat people with dignity and respect throughout this process.”

The truck and bus maker said it expects the foundry’s closing to save about $13 million a year in operating costs. Navistar took an $11 million charge in the fourth quarter for costs related to the foundry closure.