National security leadership.
Helping keep America safe.
The defense industry is a cornerstone of Alabama’s economy, and it is renowned for its significant contributions to national security. The state hosts a variety of key resources and activities, particularly in the areas of missile defense, missile and rocket production, and cybersecurity.
Alabama’s defense sector employs tens of thousands of workers, with a substantial economic contribution from federal contracts and private investments. Alabama’s focus on advanced missile defense systems and cybersecurity underscores its importance to U.S. defense strategy and its growing reputation as a leader in these critical sectors.
$2B+
Data Center Investment
$23.5B
Total Economic
Impact (2023)
4.8%
Share of State GDP
$14.4B
Total Defense Spending
(FY 2023)
Defending our mission
to protect.
Redstone Arsenal, in particular, stands as one of the most significant military installations in the United States, playing a pivotal role in national defense, space exploration and advanced research. Its impact spans across multiple domains, including missile defense, aviation, space and technology development.
The contributions of Redstone Arsenal and other Alabama installations help to ensure the security and technological edge of the United States in an increasingly complex global security environment.
Equipping ‘cyber airmen’ for new threats.
Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery plays a significant role in U.S. cybersecurity education and strategy through the Air Force Cyber College, which is a part of Air University, the Air Force’s intellectual center.
The Cyber College focuses on training Air Force personnel to address the cybersecurity needs of the modern military, with a curriculum that incorporates both academic learning and practical, mission-oriented skills.
The Cyber College is heavily involved in teaching functional mission analysis to prepare “cyber Airmen” for their roles in safeguarding Air Force operations and weapon systems against cyber threats.
Securing the skies and the seas.
Alabama’s contributions to national security aren’t focused solely on the skies—they extend to the seas as well. Austal USA’s shipyard in Mobile has long built vessels for the U.S. Navy, notably the Littoral Combat Ship and a fast expeditionary transport.
Austal now has two significant expansions underway that showcase its evolving role in national defense. A new facility at its shipyard will focus on building submarine modules to support the U.S. Navy’s goal of delivering one Columbia-class and two Virginia-class nuclear subs annually
Together, the growth projects will create 2,000 jobs through a combined investment of $750 million.
Image: Austal
Preparing generations of aviators and leaders.
Alabama has a rich heritage in aviation training that dates back to 1910, when the pioneering Wright Brothers opened their first civilian flight training program in Montgomery.
The tradition is reflected in Fort Novosel (formerly Rucker), which has served as the primary training center for U.S. Army aviators for decades. Army aviators for decades. At this Southeast Alabama site, pilots are trained on helicopters such as the UH-60 Black Hawk, AH-64 Apache, and CH-47 Chinook.
The base is also home to the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, the aviation branch’s headquarters and its training and development center, ensuring that pilots and commanders are well-prepared for modern battlefield challenges.
Fort Novosel represents the epicenter of Army aviation training and leadership, making it a vital asset to national security.
Latest Defense News
Alabama defense firms seek growth opportunities on Poland trade mission
WARSAW, Poland — The Alabama Department of Commerce and its partners in Export Alabama have launched an international business development mission to Poland, helping state-based companies explore new opportunities in one of Europe’s fastest-growing economies.
March 17, 2025
SES LLC strengthens aviation presence in Huntsville with new hangar
February 11, 2025
Alabama’s defense sector takes flight with cutting-edge technologies
January 22, 2025
Why Alabama?
You can make it here in Alabama.
Alabama is a state of makers, builders, and doers. So, whatever you make or build, you can do it in Alabama. We’re a launching point for aerospace, aviation, and defense. A leader in automotive production. A home for startups, technology, and research breakthroughs. And drawing on our manufacturing roots, we’re helping to usher in the industrial evolution in America.
Logistics & Infrastructure
Alabama’s prime location in the South and on the Gulf Coast grants it nearly unlimited access to the national and international markets. Alabama sits within a one day drive to all of the South and its nearly 150M residents.
Workforce & Training
Alabama’s strong workforce is a major attraction for businesses worldwide, driven by our commitment to skill development. Industry leaders like Mercedes-Benz and Airbus have benefited from on-site training programs in partnership with state workforce agencies; and our state’s focus on education and industrial training through colleges further strengthens Alabama’s appeal to businesses.
Taxes & Incentives
Alabama’s business approach is very inviting, offering global companies incentives, tax benefits, a skilled workforce, and excellent real estate options. Low taxes, affordable utilities, and a reasonable cost of living boost profits, and the state ensure ideal site locations and attractive incentives for long-term success in Alabama.
Project Assistance
Alabama’s Business Development Division actively seeks corporate investors, promotes global expansion for local companies, supports small businesses, and collaborates with various stakeholders for comprehensive investor support. The state also engages with communities to enhance competitiveness and contribute significantly to Alabama’s economic growth strategy, making the state attractive to investors, businesses, and job seekers.