Anduril Industries, a defense technology company headquartered in Costa Mesa, California, has announced plans to build a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in central Ohio, marking a significant investment in the U.S. defense sector. The project, called "Arsenal-1," represents a $1 billion commitment and is expected to create 4,000 jobs in the region.
The facility will span five million square feet and be located on a 500-acre site near Rickenbacker International Airport in Pickaway County, southeast of Columbus. Pending state and local approvals, construction is set to begin immediately, with production of advanced autonomous military systems scheduled to start in July 2026.
Governor Mike DeWine called the initiative the largest single job creation and payroll project in Ohio's history. He highlighted the state's deep ties to aerospace innovation, from the Wright brothers to its current role as a hub for advanced aviation and defense technologies. The governor emphasized that the project underscores Ohio's standing as a leader in cutting-edge manufacturing and technology.
Anduril's announcement comes as Ohio solidifies its position as a key player in the national effort to strengthen the defense industrial base. The company described Arsenal-1 as a facility designed to accelerate production of autonomous systems and weaponry for the United States and its allies. It will integrate advanced software and production technologies to deliver military systems on an unprecedented scale and timeline.
The project's proximity to Rickenbacker International Airport, with its dual 12,000-foot runways, will facilitate efficient distribution of the systems produced. The site also allows for future expansion, with over 500 acres available for additional development. At full capacity, the facility is expected to manufacture tens of thousands of military systems annually, ranging from autonomous drones to advanced sensor platforms.
Ohio's leadership played a critical role in attracting the project. Lt. Governor Jon Husted pointed to the state's well-developed aerospace workforce and network of training centers, colleges, and universities as key factors in securing the deal. JobsOhio, the state's private economic development corporation, will provide a significant financial incentive package, including grants and talent acquisition services, to support Anduril's operations.
The investment further bolsters central Ohio's emergence as a technology corridor, often referred to as the "silicon corridor." The region has already attracted major projects, including Intel's $20 billion semiconductor manufacturing plant, Honda and LG Energy Solution's $3.5 billion battery production facility, and Ohio State University's $110 million software innovation center.
Anduril's expansion into Ohio is part of the company's broader effort to modernize U.S. defense manufacturing. The company, founded by tech entrepreneur Palmer Luckey, who previously developed the Oculus Rift virtual reality headset, has emphasized the role of software in advancing military capabilities. The company's proprietary Lattice OS serves as the foundation for its autonomous systems, distinguishing it from traditional defense contractors focused on hardware.
In addition to the Ohio facility, Anduril operates manufacturing sites in Mississippi, Rhode Island, Georgia, California, and Australia. The company has positioned itself as a leader in autonomous systems, producing everything from unmanned aircraft to underwater vehicles.
