Aerospace and Defense
Launchpad for success
For six decades, NASA’s Stennis Space Center – located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast – has played a pivotal role in our nation’s aerospace and defense industry. With its state-of-the-art rocket and jet engine testing facilities and research institutions, Stennis maintains one of the greatest concentrations of aerospace and defense personnel in the country. Mississippi offers a robust portfolio of resources and advantages, such as the Aerospace Initiative Incentives Program and our proximity to major military installations, to help industry leaders in this vital sector soar above and beyond the competition.
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Fast Facts
- Space Systems
- Commercial and General Aviation
- Military Aircraft
- Shipbuilding

From Mississippi to Mars
Aerospace and defense companies with ideas that are out of this world are bringing them to life in Mississippi, thanks to the many available resources and strong business environment offered by the state. Businesses like Relativity, which produces the world’s first 3D printed rockets, and Vertex Aerospace rely on Mississippi to help their ideas take flight.

Dominating the skies
Mississippi is proud to support companies such as GE Aviation and Airbus Helicopters that produce dependable and world-class products for commercial and general aviation use. In fact, every commercial airplane in the world has at least one component made in Mississippi.

Protecting U.S. interests around the world
Thanks to companies who choose to do business in Mississippi, our military remains strong. Lockheed Martin, Tyonek and Raytheon are just a few examples of industry-leading companies who rely on Mississippi’s location and workforce to provide cutting-edge technologies for our military.

Navigating the seas
Industry-leading, global companies have decided to drop anchor in Mississippi where they design, produce and manufacture the highest quality vessels. From Huntington Ingalls to Halter Marine, Mississippi provides the most secure and reliable systems to our government and military personnel so they can protect the U.S., both at home and abroad.
Our Workforce
Mississippi boasts a talented, skilled and productive workforce. Mississippians work hard to ensure they not only meet, but exceed, the needs and expectations of companies in various industries throughout the state.
Igniting Research
Mississippi is home to some of the nation’s leading research and development institutions. With business incubators located around the state, we encourage and motivate innovative individuals to dream big.
Featured Media
Rocket Lab prepares to blast off in Mississippi
Jackson, Miss. (September 21, 2022) – U.S.-based Rocket Lab is locating an engine test facility for its new large rocket […]
Adranos bringing rocket motor research and development to Stone County
Jackson, Mississippi – September 24, 2020 – Solid rocket fuel innovator Adranos, Inc. is locating its rocket motor research and […]
Relativity increasing presence at Stennis Space Center
Jackson, Mississippi – June 9, 2020 – Relativity Space, the first and only company to 3D print entire rockets, continues […]
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