Columbus, OH – Anduril Industries, a leader in autonomous systems and weapons manufacturing, has announced that it will build its first hyperscale manufacturing facility, Arsenal-1, in Columbus, Ohio. This groundbreaking project aims to revolutionize the production scale and speed of autonomous systems and weapons for the United States and its allies, playing a crucial role in strengthening the nation’s defense capabilities amid rising international threats.
The nearly $1 billion investment will create over 4,000 direct jobs, making it the largest job-creation initiative in Ohio’s history. The facility will span 5 million square feet at full scale and is expected to produce tens of thousands of military systems annually, including autonomous weapons, sensors, and systems. Additionally, the project is anticipated to support 8,500 jobs from suppliers, construction, and other sectors, driving significant economic growth in Pickaway County and the surrounding region.
“Arsenal-1 represents a major leap forward in how we manufacture the autonomous systems and weapons our nation needs,” said Brian Schimpf, CEO of Anduril. “Ohio’s skilled workforce, advanced infrastructure, and commitment to innovation make it the ideal location for this historic effort to strengthen America’s defense industrial base and arsenal of democracy.”
The new facility will be located near Rickenbacker Airport, providing easy access to two 12,000-foot runways and a private apron capable of supporting military-scale aircraft. This strategic location will ensure rapid delivery of components and systems to customers. With more than 500 acres available for future expansion, Arsenal-1 is designed for long-term scalability to meet surges in demand and support national security objectives.
“Ohio’s history of aerospace and defense leadership is a perfect match for Anduril’s mission,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “At a time when rapid technological innovation is critical, Ohio’s highly skilled labor force will help Anduril deliver the next generation of autonomous systems and strengthen our national security.”
Anduril’s Arsenal-1 will be a first-of-its-kind facility, utilizing a software-defined manufacturing platform, Arsenal OS, to integrate design, development, and mass production processes. The facility will support the mass production of autonomous systems and weapons, with the flexibility to scale rapidly to meet evolving requirements.
“Ohio is the perfect home for Anduril’s cutting-edge facility,” said Lt. Governor Jon Husted. “This investment reaffirms Ohio’s leadership in advanced technology and national security while providing thousands of new jobs in defense manufacturing.”
Anduril’s decision to build Arsenal-1 in Ohio follows an extensive search across the U.S., with the company highlighting the state’s strong infrastructure, legacy in aerospace and defense, and large manufacturing workforce as key factors in its decision.
The project is expected to begin construction in 2026, with the first products rolling off the production line in July of that year. Once operational, Arsenal-1 will join Anduril’s other facilities nationwide, including its rocket motor factory in Mississippi and robotic submarine plant in Rhode Island.
“We are proud to welcome Anduril to Ohio,” said Rep. Mike Carey of Ohio’s 15th Congressional District. “This investment will not only bring thousands of good-paying jobs but also ensure that Ohio continues to lead the way in defense manufacturing and innovation.”
Ohio’s legacy in aerospace and defense innovation, bolstered by the presence of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and NASA’s Glenn Research Center, positions the state as a critical hub for national security and technological advancement.
The announcement of Arsenal-1 underscores Ohio’s growing role in the defense sector and marks a significant step in meeting the nation’s future defense needs.
