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.
Concentration for Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing
Lightcast, 2024
Largest Optics & Photonics Manufacturing Job Growth
Lightcast, 2024
Largest 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 (July 17, 2025) – Today, Hadrian, the advanced manufacturing company building AI-powered factories for America, announced plans to establish a large-scale manufacturing and software hub, known as Factory 3 (F3) in Mesa, Arizona. The 270,000-square foot facility represents a $200 million investment, which will support raw materials to complete mission-critical systems. Expected to be fully operational in early 2026, the facility will create 350 new jobs. In addition, Hadrian announced a total $260 million in new capital and expansions of its footprint in California and Arizona, which will support significant new manufacturing space, expanded R&D capacity, and dedicated teams focused on shipbuilding and naval defense production.
READ MORE about Hadrian To Invest $200 Million To Establish Manufacturing And Software Hub In Mesa»PHOENIX, AZ (July 8, 2025) – The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), in partnership with the Southwest Mission Acceleration Center (SW MAC) today announced the launch of the Arizona Office of Defense Innovation (ODI), a new public-private partnership that will expand Arizona’s aerospace and defense leadership. Governor Hobbs and the Arizona Legislature established the Arizona Office of Defense Innovation through the recently enacted Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The Office will be housed within the ACA and serve as a critical hub to coordinate efforts between state agencies, defense contractors, academia, innovators, and the DoD.
READ MORE about Arizona Commerce Authority And Southwest Mission Acceleration Center Launch The Office Of Defense Innovation To Strengthen State's Aerospace, Defense, And Technology Sector»