Anduril Industries to Build Drone Manufacturing Facility in Ohio

News Summary

Anduril Industries has revealed a plan to invest at least $900 million in a new drone manufacturing facility near Rickenbacker International Airport, aiming to create over 4,000 jobs by 2035. The project, known as Arsenal-1, will enhance Ohio’s economy by focusing on advanced unmanned aircraft systems production. The facility’s phased construction and substantial state support underscore its significance to local employment and infrastructure. This initiative is poised to transform central Ohio into a key player in the unmanned aviation sector and represent the largest job creation effort in the state’s history.

Anduril Industries to Build $900 Million Drone Manufacturing Facility in Ohio, Offering Thousands of Jobs

Anduril Industries has announced its ambitious plan to invest at least $900 million in the establishment of a state-of-the-art drone manufacturing facility near Rickenbacker International Airport in central Ohio. The project, titled Arsenal-1, is set to create over 4,000 jobs in the region by the year 2035 and marks a significant addition to Ohio’s economic landscape.

Phased Construction Plans and Job Creation

The initial stages of construction will involve a minimum investment of $80 million. The first phase includes upgrades to an existing 773,114 square foot warehouse leased from CT Realty. This phase alone will see over $36 million allocated, with completion expected by 2025. Following this, the second phase will construct a new 924,352 square foot facility at a cost of $45 million, also located in the Rickenbacker Logistics Park. When all phases are completed by 2035, the entire Arsenal-1 complex will encompass around five million square feet.

Unmanned Aircraft Production and Future Plans

The facility will initially focus on manufacturing the Fury unmanned aircraft system. Future plans include the production of other advanced drone systems such as the Barracuda and Roadrunner, expanding its capabilities in the unmanned aviation sector.

Financial Support and Incentives

This substantial project has garnered approximately $832 million in state support, highlighting the importance of Anduril Industries to Ohio’s economic growth. This financial backing includes a $310 million JobsOhio Grant, tax credits over a 30-year span, and investments geared toward improving logistics at Rickenbacker International Airport.

Logistics and Infrastructure Considerations

To facilitate construction, the Columbus Regional Airport Authority has approved a 50-year lease for 75 acres of land at Rickenbacker International Airport. The initial cost of the lease is set at $588,060 per year, with an expected annual increase of 2%. Furthermore, the terms include an option to extend the lease for an additional 25 years post the initial period.

State Investments and Infrastructure Improvements

The Ohio state government is also investing $70 million to enhance the taxiways at Rickenbacker International Airport, ensuring efficient operations for the new facility. Additionally, the state has pledged $452 million in tax breaks based on employment metrics, demonstrating their commitment to promoting job growth and economic development within the state.

Significant Economic Impact

This effort represents the largest single job creation initiative in Ohio’s history, emphasizing the importance of high-tech manufacturing to the future of the state’s economy. With the production expected to kick off by 2026, the community can anticipate not just significant job opportunities but also a boost in local businesses that support such a large-scale operation.

Conclusion

As Anduril Industries moves forward with its plans for the Arsenal-1 drone manufacturing facility, the anticipated economic benefits and job creation signify a pivotal moment for central Ohio. This project is poised to place the region at the forefront of the growing unmanned aerial systems market, cementing its status as a vital player in technological advancements in aviation.

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Additional Resources

• Anduril Industries: Arsenal-1 Manufacturing Facility
• The Dispatch: Anduril Leases Land at Rickenbacker
• ABC 6: Anduril to Build Hangar at Rickenbacker
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Anduril Industries
• Cleveland.com: Anduril’s Ohio Manufacturing Plans