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.
TUCSON, AZ (February 17, 2026) – As the state is anticipated to add over 25,000 new jobs in the semiconductor industry in the coming years, the Arizona Commerce Authority and the University of Arizona are strengthening the workforce pipeline with a $35.5 million facility expansion. University, government and industry leaders unveiled the Office of Research and Partnerships’ Nano Fabrication Center semiconductor cleanroom with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 17. The cleanroom prepares students for the state’s booming tech sector while supporting faculty research and industry collaboration on chip fabrication, optical devices and quantum computing systems. The Arizona Commerce Authority awarded funding in 2023 to expand the cleanroom from 2,800 to 6,800 square feet, equip it with ultramodern tools, and support a statewide workforce development program.
READ MORE about ACA and U of A Launch $35.5 Million Semiconductor Nano Fabrication Center »PHOENIX, AZ (February 13, 2026) – Tech talks at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff. STEM pitches in Yuma. A sunrise hike at Phoenix Mountain preserve. An AI discussion in Cottonwood’s wine country; patient-centered health discussions in Tucson. These experiences—and more—are being featured at the inaugural Arizona Tech Week, taking place April 6-12, 2026. The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) announced the launch of the highly anticipated event calendar, featuring over 100 events statewide. Arizona Tech Week will convene innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, influencers, and industry leaders to foster collaboration and connection, showcasing Arizona’s leadership as a global innovation hub. Arizona Tech Week is supported by Platinum Sponsors Honeywell Aerospace and IdealabAZ, and Gold Sponsor Western Alliance Bank.
READ MORE about ACA Launches Event Calendar For Inaugural Arizona Tech Week »