A US defense contractor plans to build a massive advanced manufacturing facility in central Ohio, adding 4,000 jobs to the area’s high-tech sector.
US Defense Contractor to Build 4,000-Worker Advanced Manufacturing Facility in Central Ohio
US defense contractor Anduril Industries is preparing to build a massive advanced manufacturing facility in central Ohio, adding a planned 4,000 jobs to the area’s burgeoning high-tech sector. The $1.8 billion project will create a sprawling complex near Rickenbacker International Airport, with production of military drones and autonomous air vehicles set to begin in July 2026.
Location and Timeline
The facility, dubbed “Arsenal 1,” will be located on a 500-acre site in rural Pickaway County, approximately 16 miles southeast of Columbus. Construction is expected to commence as soon as state and local approvals are secured. Production is scheduled to start in July 2026, with Christian Brose, Anduril’s chief strategy officer, outlining the plan.
Ohio’s Aerospace Sector
Republican Governor Mike DeWine hailed the project as the largest single job creation and payroll initiative announced by Ohio, highlighting the state’s strong aerospace sector. He noted that Ohio has a diverse workforce and an extensive network of job training centers, colleges, and universities prepared to educate new advanced manufacturing workers.
The aerospace sector in Ohio boasts notable companies such as GE Aerospace, which operates from the global headquarters in the state, and Joby Aviation, a manufacturer preparing to produce electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft near Dayton. The latest development adds to what is becoming known as a “silicon corridor” in Ohio, featuring Intel’s $20 billion chip factory and Honda and LG Energy Solution of South Korea’s $3.5 billion battery plant.
Anduril’s Goals
Anduril views the Ohio facility as integral to its goal to “Rebuild the Arsenal” of U.S. military weapons and platforms by leveraging advanced software and production technologies. The company aims to “hyperscale” manufacturing, with this project serving as a key component of its strategy.
The Anduril project will pursue a job creation tax credit from the Ohio Department of Development and a $70 million infusion from the All Ohio Future Fund, with JobsOhio planning to provide a sizeable grant and talent acquisition services.
