Home to some of the world's largest aerospace and defense companies, innovative startups, and next-generation technologies and manufacturing, Arizona is at the forefront of the aerospace & defense industry. With more than 300 days of sunshine annually, a longstanding commitment to supporting the U.S. military and a business-friendly environment, top companies come to Arizona to develop advanced solutions and drive innovation.
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Concentration for Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing
Lightcast, 2025
Largest Production Occupations Job Growth
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Largest Guided Missile & Space Vehicle Manufacturing Employment
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Aerospace Manufacturing
Business Facilities, 2025
Largest A&D Manufacturing Employment
Lightcast, 2025
Concentration for Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing
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Department of Defense
Contracts
in Fiscal Year 2025
Optics industry
The Arizona Commerce Authority, in partnership with the Southwest Mission Acceleration Center (SW MAC) announced the launch the Arizona Office of Defense Innovation (ODI), a new public-private partnership that will expand Arizona's aerospace and defense leadership. The strategic initiative will advance emerging dual-use technology and support the growth of Department of Defense (DoD) missions within the state.
Arizona's been great to work with on the practical stuff like permitting, workforce, getting energy connected to the building -- all the basic things that are harder to do in some states. We're really happy to expand into Arizona.
Chris Power, Founder and CEO
Hadrian
Arizona is proud to provide a platform for innovation powerhouses like Hadrian to grow and thrive. The advanced manufacturer announced plans to establish a 270,000-square-foot large-scale AI-powered manufacturing and software hub, representing a $200 million investment. Arizona’s top talent, commitment to keeping taxes low and regulation light, and strategic geographic location have earned the state a reputation as a leading hub for advanced manufacturing.
PHOENIX, AZ (June 17, 2026) – Following another year of major economic development wins highlighted by historic investments, significant expansions and rapid economic growth, Arizona received a prestigious “Gold Shovel” award from Area Development Magazine in the 5-8 million state population category, marking the sixth year in a row that Arizona has received a gold shovel. The Shovel Awards recognize states that “garnered large job-creating and investment projects through innovative policies, infrastructure improvements, and other processes that attracted new employers as well as investments in expanded facilities.” In addition, Area Development named Amkor’s $7 billion advanced packaging and testing expansion project in Peoria and Axon’s Scottsdale headquarters expansion as “Projects of the Year.”
READ MORE about Arizona Wins Sixth Straight Gold Shovel Award Recognizing Economic Development Excellence »PHOENIX, AZ (June 12, 2026) – With rapid momentum across Arizona’s dynamic aerospace and defense ecosystem, Airbus, a global aerospace and defense leader, and the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), hosted Airbus Supplier Day on June 12, 2026. Governor Katie Hobbs joined Robin Hayes, Chairman and CEO of Airbus in North America; Sharon Green, CEO of Unical; Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority; Representative Greg Stanton; Representative David Schweikert; Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and over 60 A&D suppliers for Airbus Supplier Day, showcasing the strength and depth of the state’s aerospace and defense supply chain. Since 2020, Arizona has attracted more than 62 aerospace and defense industry expansions, representing over $3.3 billion in investment and more than 18,400 new jobs.
READ MORE about Airbus and ACA Host Supplier Day Showcasing Arizona’s Aerospace and Defense Leadership »