The aerospace and defense (A&D) industry is reaching new heights globally, and Greater Los Angeles (GLA) continues to be a driving force in this growth. With its unmatched blend of historical legacy, cutting-edge innovation, and robust manufacturing capacity, the region is cementing its role as a critical hub for aerospace and defense products and services. Here’s a look at the state of the A&D sector in GLA as of mid-2024.
The State of Aerospace & Defense in Greater Los Angeles
Rising Global Demand
Worldwide demand for aerospace and defense products is climbing, driven by advancements in space exploration, commercial aviation, and defense priorities. The U.S. Department of Defense has allocated over $17 billion in direct contracts to California in fiscal year 2024, second only to Virginia.
These investments underscore the importance of California—and specifically GLA—as a leader in meeting defense and aerospace requirements for both the nation and the world.
Employment Milestone: A 20-Year High
Los Angeles County’s aerospace sector is thriving, with employment in aerospace and aerospace parts production reaching a 20-year high of nearly 44,000 jobs. This robust workforce is fueled by:
- A concentration of skilled labor, nurtured by GLA’s premier research universities and technical institutes.
- Historic expertise in aerospace manufacturing and engineering.
- Increasing demand for high-value products like satellites, defense systems, and advanced propulsion technologies.
Strategic Advantages of GLA
Greater Los Angeles stands out as a leading aerospace and defense hub due to its:
- National Strategic Sites: GLA is home to key facilities supporting national defense and aerospace innovation, including renowned manufacturers and R&D centers.
- Research University Network: Institutions like Caltech, UCLA, and USC drive breakthroughs in aerospace technology, attracting talent and fostering public-private collaborations.
- Historic Aerospace Heritage: From the Apollo program to commercial aviation giants, GLA’s legacy as a center of aerospace innovation remains unparalleled.
- Diverse Manufacturing Footprint: The region boasts a wide range of advanced manufacturing capabilities, from precision machining to next-generation materials development.
Leasing Activity Surges in 2024
Demand for industrial and office spaces catering to A&D companies has seen an upswing. Through the first half of 2024, leasing activity in GLA totaled approximately 1 million square feet, positioning the region to surpass the totals recorded in 2023 and 2022.
This growth reflects the sector’s expanding footprint and the continued need for spaces to support manufacturing, research, and administrative operations.
The Future of GLA Aerospace & Defense
As space exploration becomes more commercialized and global tensions sustain defense spending, GLA’s prominence in the A&D sector is poised to grow further:
- Space Products and Services: Satellite manufacturing, space exploration technologies, and orbital infrastructure are all burgeoning markets.
- Sustainability Innovations: Aerospace companies in GLA are leading efforts to create greener aviation technologies and more sustainable production methods.
- Talent Pipeline Expansion: With rising investments in STEM education and aerospace-related programs, the region is securing its position as a top destination for A&D talent.
Conclusion
Greater Los Angeles is not just a participant but a leader in the global aerospace and defense industry. Its strategic advantages, skilled workforce, and unparalleled legacy position the region to thrive in an era of heightened demand for space and defense products.
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