11-12-2025

Soaring Strength: Aerospace, Aviation, and Defense in North Carolina’s Southeast

North Carolina’s Southeast (NCSE) is where innovation takes flight. The region’s aerospace, aviation, and defense sectors are powered by a deep talent pipeline, ideal location, strategic military presence, advanced infrastructure, and pro-business environment that together create one of the most dynamic industry ecosystems in the nation.

Strategic Location for Global Reach

The 20-county region offers quick access to major markets, military bases, and international shipping routes. Interstates, rail networks, and deep-water ports at Wilmington and Morehead City make it easy for manufacturers and suppliers to move goods efficiently across the U.S. and around the world.

Skilled and Mission-Ready Workforce

North Carolina’s Southeast benefits from a highly skilled, disciplined workforce, many with direct experience in aerospace and defense operations. Seven military installations – Fort Bragg, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, Camp Lejeune, Marine Corps Air Stations at Cherry Point and New River, Pope Army Airfield, and Military Ocean Terminal at Sunny Point – provide a steady flow of transitioning service members (approximately 20,000 annually) whose technical expertise and leadership skills are invaluable to the private sector. The region’s 16 community colleges and five four-year colleges and universities collaborate closely with employers to ensure training programs align with industry needs.

Established and Emerging Industry Presence

Major aerospace and defense contractors have already chosen North Carolina’s Southeast. Companies such as Spirit AeroSystems, RTX, Honeywell Aerospace, GE Aerospace, and Lockheed Martin benefit from the region’s supportive business climate, skilled labor pool, and competitive operating costs. These global leaders are complemented by a growing network of suppliers and component manufacturers that strengthen the local supply chain and support rapid innovation.

Innovation and Research for Tomorrow’s Technologies

The region’s educational institutions and research centers are advancing the next generation of aviation and defense technologies, from unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and composite materials to avionics and propulsion. North Carolina’s commitment to research and innovation ensures companies in the Southeast are well positioned to lead in emerging sectors such as autonomous flight and advanced manufacturing.

Infrastructure Built for Industry

With robust utilities, shovel-ready industrial sites, and access to international airports including Wilmington International (ILM), Fayetteville Regional (FAY), and Raleigh-Durham International (RDU), the region is equipped for aerospace and defense growth. Several business parks are specifically designed to meet the needs of manufacturers and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations, providing room for expansion and long-term investment. The region is home to the NC Aerospace Corridor which is anchored by the NC Global Transpark and supported by Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and Fleet Readiness Center East.

Proven Success and Promising Horizons

From the first flight at Kitty Hawk to cutting-edge drone testing today, North Carolina’s aviation story is one of continuous innovation. In North Carolina’s Southeast, that legacy continues as public and private partners collaborate to attract investment, create jobs, and keep the region at the forefront of global aerospace and defense advancement. North Carolina’s Southeast offers the ideal landing spot for companies ready to build, innovate, and lead in the skies – and beyond.