Mississippi: Powering the Future of the Blue Economy

For generations, Mississippi has been a maritime leader. Today, the state anchors a thriving blue economy where shipbuilding, ocean technology, naval defense, aquaculture, and advanced R&D converge to shape the future of global maritime innovation.

From the Gulf Coast to the Mississippi River, companies are designing and building everything from combat-ready naval vessels to autonomous underwater vehicles to cutting-edge ocean observation technologies. The state’s strategic location, deepwater ports, and world-class workforce have established Mississippi as a hub for maritime excellence and Indo-Pacific engagement.

Since the 1970s, Hancock and Jackson Counties have been home to some of the nation’s most advanced naval shipbuilding capabilities. Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) in Pascagoula is the largest manufacturing employer in Mississippi and one of the U.S. Navy’s most critical partners, constructing destroyers, amphibious assault ships, and Coast Guard cutters that secure sea lanes worldwide.

Mississippi is also at the forefront of ocean science and technology. At NASA’s Stennis Space Center, the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) operates one of the world’s largest oceanographic databases, supporting everything from undersea warfare to climate research. More than 40 resident agencies and private companies at Stennis are pioneering advances in unmanned maritime systems, hydrography, and environmental monitoring—technologies vital to Indo-Pacific security and sustainability.

The Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs leads the way in coastal ecology, fisheries science, and marine biotechnology, helping ensure resilient food systems and sustainable oceans. Mississippi State University and the University of Southern Mississippi (a national leader in ocean engineering and hydrography) train the next generation of maritime innovators, from ship designers to ocean mappers.

Together, these assets form a dynamic ecosystem fueling Mississippi’s blue economy. Companies like Rolls-Royce, L3Harris, and Ocean Aero are investing in Mississippi to advance uncrewed maritime vehicles, propulsion systems, and ocean monitoring platforms. These technologies are critical not only to naval defense, but also to global commerce, energy exploration, and environmental stewardship.

Mississippi’s maritime strength directly supports U.S. allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific. Whether it’s ensuring open sea lanes, advancing shipbuilding collaboration, or deploying next-generation autonomous technologies, Mississippi is helping shape the future of maritime security and economic growth.

With its pro-business climate, strategic coastal position, and skilled workforce, Mississippi is the ideal location for companies driving innovation across the blue economy.