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.
AND MANY MORE
Concentration for Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing
Lightcast, 2024
Largest Optics & Photonics Manufacturing Job Growth
Lightcast, 2024
Largest Guided Missile & Space Vehicle Manufacturing Employment
Lightcast, 2024
Aerospace Manufacturing Attractiveness
PwC, 2025
Largest A&D Manufacturing Employment
Lightcast, 2024
Concentration for Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing
Lightcast, 2024
Department of Defense
Contracts
in Fiscal Year 2023
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.
MESA, AZ (January 29, 2026) – Hadrian, the advanced manufacturing company building AI-powered factories for America, today celebrated the opening of Factory 3 (F3), a large-scale manufacturing and software hub in Mesa, Arizona. Hadrian has invested $200 million in the 290,000-square-foot facility, which will bring over 350 new jobs to the community in early 2026. Hadrian executives were joined by state, federal, and local elected officials including Governor Hobbs, City of Mesa leadership, and partners including the Arizona Commerce Authority to celebrate the project at a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the significant impact it will have on the local and state economy. Factory 3 features state-of-the-art manufacturing systems, autonomous production workflows, and deep integration of AI and robotics to accelerate throughput and enhance quality.
READ MORE about Hadrian Celebrates Ribbon Cutting Of Factory 3 Facility In Mesa »MESA, AZ (January 21, 2026) – DSV today broke ground on its new Arizona regional headquarters in Mesa. The $14.5 million investment supports Arizona's high-growth industrial sectors with a 950,000-square-foot facility that will serve as a hub for DSV customers and house all service offerings, including air, sea, and road transport, and contract logistics, including inventory management solutions, with plans to employ a maximum capacity of approximately 160 employees. The groundbreaking ceremony featured key executives from DSV, their customers, and partners including the Arizona Commerce Authority, Greater Phoenix Economic Council, and City of Mesa leaders.
READ MORE about DSV Breaks Ground On New Arizona Regional Headquarters In Mesa »