The Arkansas Economic Development Guide covers a wide range of topics related to the state’s economic development efforts, from workforce development to lifestyle amenities. Topics include Arkansas’ economic diversity, tax cuts, foreign investment, remote work, and key industries, including steel, aerospace and defense, food and beverage, and others.

The aerospace and defense industry is soaring in Arkansas. The state is attracting investment and expansions, growing its workforce, and exporting essential aerospace and defense products.

Aerospace and aviation represents Arkansas’ #1 export, and we are home to nearly 150 well-known aerospace and defense companies that include MRO, component parts, completion centers, and defense contractors as well as the Little Rock Air Force Base. The state is also home to the Highland Industrial Park, one of the nation’s fastest growing defense corridors, with companies like Aerojet Rocketdyne, Esterline, Lockheed Martin and Raytheon.

Arkansas offers a robust business climate for aerospace and defense companies, providing a low cost of doing business and a talented workforce. This strong business climate, coupled with the state’s unparalleled quality of life and beautiful outdoors, makes Arkansas a prime destination for the aerospace and defense industry.