Ohio has solidified its reputation as a hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing with Anduril Industries' announcement to build Arsenal 1, a $900 million, 5-million-square-foot manufacturing facility near Rickenbacker International Airport. This state-of-the-art facility represents the largest job creation and payroll project in Ohio's history, with transformative implications for the state's economy, workforce, and technology ecosystem.

The Anduril Arsenal 1 Project: By the Numbers

Anduril Industries, a leader in autonomous systems and weapons manufacturing, has chosen Ohio for its flagship facility, marking a major milestone in both the company’s and the state’s trajectory. Here’s a snapshot of the impact:

• Investment: $900 million in regional capital investment.
• Job Creation: Over 4,000 direct jobs by 2035, with an additional 4,500 indirect jobs, totaling 8,500 statewide.
• Economic Output: An estimated $2 billion annual economic impact.
• GDP Contribution: $1 billion annually to Ohio’s economy.
• Tax Revenue: $800 million in projected state tax revenues by 2035.

The scale and scope of Arsenal 1 underscore Ohio’s growing influence in high-tech manufacturing and defense innovation.

Why Ohio? A Magnet for Innovation and Growth

Ohio’s commitment to fostering an environment where businesses can thrive has positioned the state as a natural choice for Anduril's groundbreaking project. According to Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Ohio Department of Development, “Ohio’s success is built on our investment in people, innovation, and opportunity.”

Key factors that drew Anduril to Ohio include:

• Strategic Location: Ohio’s proximity to key logistics hubs and markets makes it ideal for large-scale manufacturing and distribution.
• Talent Pipeline: With a robust workforce supported by state initiatives and partnerships with educational institutions, Ohio provides the skilled labor Anduril needs to scale its operations.
• Business-Friendly Environment: Programs like JobsOhio have laid the groundwork for significant investments, offering competitive incentives for companies like Anduril to establish a long-term presence.
• Infrastructure: The development near Rickenbacker International Airport ensures streamlined logistics for domestic and international distribution.

Arsenal 1: Advancing Defense and Technology

Anduril’s facility will focus on the production of autonomous systems, including advanced drones and other cutting-edge defense technologies. Arsenal 1 is designed to redefine how weapons systems are manufactured, emphasizing:

• Scale and Speed: The hyperscale manufacturing approach will enhance production capacity while maintaining rigorous quality standards.
• Innovation: By leveraging Ohio’s growing tech ecosystem, Anduril aims to push the boundaries of autonomous technology for defense applications.
• Collaboration: The facility is expected to strengthen Anduril's partnerships with defense agencies and allied nations, ensuring rapid deployment of essential systems.

A Transformational Impact on Ohio's Economy

The economic ripple effects of Anduril’s investment extend far beyond the facility itself:

1. Job Creation: High-paying jobs will attract top-tier talent to Ohio, boosting local income levels and supporting regional growth.
2. Supply Chain Growth: The influx of production will generate demand for suppliers, contractors, and service providers across the state.
3. Community Revitalization: The project will spur development in the surrounding area, including infrastructure upgrades and housing projects.
4. Global Visibility: With Anduril’s high-profile presence, Ohio’s reputation as a leader in high-tech manufacturing and defense innovation will attract further investments from other advanced industries.

Building the Future of Defense in Ohio

Anduril’s Arsenal 1 isn’t just a facility—it’s a statement. It reflects the state’s strategic vision to lead in the technologies of tomorrow while ensuring robust economic growth for its communities. The partnership between Ohio and Anduril exemplifies how public-private collaboration can fuel innovation and drive meaningful change.

As Governor Mike DeWine aptly noted, “We are building the best high-tech manufacturing workforce in the world.” Arsenal 1 is more than just a milestone; it’s the beginning of a new era for Ohio—one defined by leadership in innovation, resilience, and economic strength.

Sources:

1. Bloomberg, “Anduril to Locate 5-Million-Square-Foot Drone Factory in Ohio.”
2. Ohio Department of Development & JobsOhio Reports.
3. Anduril By the Numbers Infographic.
4. Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted’s Announcement.