Utah’s aerospace, defense, and security industry generated nearly $100 billion in economic output in 2023, 19.2% of the state’s entire GDP, spanning military installations, manufacturers, and a growing wave of drone and space technology companies. EDCUtah connects the businesses driving that growth to the sites and talent required to expand here.
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Aerospace and Defense Industry Profile
Aerospace and Defense Powers a Fifth of Utah's Economy
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Aerospace
Taking Flight in Utah
36,936
Aerospace and defense employees statewide (2025)
1.84
Aerospace and defense location quotient (2025)
20K+
Employed in advanced materials
3.8%
Union membership rate, fifth-lowest in the nation (2025)
#1
State for economic outlook, 19 years running (ALEC, 2026)
Utah's Aerospace Advantage
Why Utah's Aerospace Industry Stands Out
Advanced Manufacturing
Utah’s advanced manufacturing capabilities support aerospace companies across the development and production of aircraft, spacecraft, components, and defense technologies. Experienced manufacturers, suppliers, and specialized facilities provide the capabilities needed to support complex aerospace operations and continued growth.
Workforce & Talent
Utah’s aerospace industry benefits from a skilled workforce supported by universities, technical colleges, and workforce training programs. Engineers, technicians, and other specialized talent help companies support aerospace manufacturing, research, engineering, and operations.
Industry Partnerships
Utah’s aerospace industry benefits from collaboration among companies, research institutions, industry organizations, and public partners. Organizations such as 47G and MIDA connect industry, government, and research partners to support innovation, workforce development, and continued industry growth.
Airports
Utah offers a range of aviation infrastructure, from general aviation facilities to major commercial airports. This network supports aerospace companies with access to air transportation, cargo, testing, operations, and connections to markets across the country and around the world.
Military Installations & Space
Utah’s military installations and space capabilities support aerospace and defense companies through testing, training, research, and mission-critical operations. Hill Air Force Base, the Utah Test and Training Range, and other state and federal facilities provide access to specialized infrastructure and capabilities that support national security and space-related missions.
What Sets Utah Apart
Explore Utah's Aerospace & Defense Expertise
Insights from companies operating in Utah’s Aerospace industry
“There are so many factors that make Utah a great place to do business. The workforce in Utah is phenomenal, thanks to the number and quality of higher education institutions, along with the strong State support for education. Additionally, we found that Utah is a very attractive place to live for many aspiring engineers.”
Todd Young
Vice President of Strategic & Defense Solutions at Auria Space
Grow Your Aerospace Business in Utah
Connect with EDCUtah to learn how Utah can support your next investment, expansion, or relocation.
