Defense

Defense

Arizona Poised to Become Global Leader in the Defense Industry

In the defense industry’s globally competitive environment, Arizona’s résumé shines. Delivering between $7 billion to $9 billion and more than 93,000 jobs to the economy, Arizona’s history in aerospace and defense is already a success story. Its bright future is supported by 468 defense companies, 17 military installations, exceptional aerospace and engineering programs from primary through university levels, optimal weather conditions for flying and testing, and staunch government support for Arizona’s growing high-tech industry.

Arizona companies lead the industry in the production of uninhabited aerial vehicles (UAVs), aircraft, missiles, space vehicles, battlefield communications and guidance systems, and defense contracts awarded to Arizona companies increased from $4.1 billion to $12.1 billion between 2000 and 2009, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. The growth was fueled by the success of major defense industry players located in Arizona – including Raytheon Missile Systems (RMS), General Dynamics C4 Systems, BAE Systems and ATK’s Integrated Weapon Systems (IWS) – and the benefits impacted 3,636 Arizona firms in their supply chain. Workforce strength and technological research are two critical areas of focus for the continued success of Arizona’s current defense leaders, and future growth of the defense sector in Arizona. Both efforts are fully supported by Arizona’s state and local political and educational leaders.

Arizona’s defense companies receive a steady stream of engineers, scientists, technicians and machinists from its 17 military installations, universities and technical schools, all using programs tailored to fit the needs of defense companies throughout the state. Arizona’s major universities are also responsible the state’s notable A&D research. Research entities are another of Arizona’s greatest resources – the Aerospace and Defense Research Collaboratory is a new initiative through Arizona State University (ASU) designed to build broad connections between industry and higher education that will advance and strengthen aerospace and military technologies.

Add 300 days of sunshine to the résumé and Arizona is a strong hub for the aerospace and defense industry.

Major Defense Companies Located in Arizona

Research Resources

Arizona’s Military Installations: Army

Arizona’s Military Installations: Air Force

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