On January 16, Anduril Industries, a leading defense technology company, announced its decision to expand operations to Pickaway County, Ohio, bringing both economic growth and educational opportunities to the region. The new facility, located in the northern part of the Teays Valley Local School District, is expected to create 4,200 jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy.
The arrival of Anduril Industries will open up a range of opportunities for local students, particularly in the fields of technology, engineering, and manufacturing. Through partnerships with the Teays Valley Local School District, Anduril aims to inspire the next generation of leaders through internships, mentorship programs, and career exploration initiatives. These efforts will allow students to gain hands-on experience and insight into technology-related careers, particularly those focused on STEM education.
“The addition of Anduril Industries is an exciting opportunity for our community,” said Superintendent Kyle Wolfe. “It strengthens our local economy and opens doors for our students to explore careers in technology, engineering, and manufacturing. This opportunity aligns with our district’s commitment to fostering strong connections for our students’ futures.”
As Anduril Industries ramps up its operations over the next decade, the economic benefits will continue to grow. The company is projected to contribute more than $1 million annually to local entities, including the Teays Valley Local School District and the Eastland-Fairfield Career and Technology Center. These funds will provide crucial long-term support for the district, although Wolfe emphasized the need for the May bond issue to address immediate funding needs as enrollment continues to increase.
The facility, named Arsenal-1, will be part of a nearly $1 billion investment that will bring over 4,000 direct jobs to the area. The facility, once completed, will span 5 million square feet and be capable of producing tens of thousands of military systems annually, including autonomous weapons and sensors. Additionally, the project is expected to support thousands of indirect jobs in construction, suppliers, and other sectors, further driving regional economic growth.
“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 effort to strengthen America’s defense industrial base.”
The new facility will be strategically located near Rickenbacker Airport, which provides convenient access to military-grade infrastructure. This location will support the rapid delivery of components and systems to customers. The 500-acre site also allows for future expansion, enabling the facility to scale production as needed to meet national security demands.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted both highlighted the significance of the investment in Ohio’s aerospace and defense sector. “Ohio’s history of aerospace and defense leadership is a perfect match for Anduril’s mission,” DeWine said, noting the state’s skilled labor force as a key asset in supporting the company’s operations.
Construction of Arsenal-1 is expected to begin in 2026, with the first products rolling off the production line by July of that year. Once operational, the facility will join other Anduril locations across the country, including a rocket motor factory in Mississippi and a robotic submarine plant in Rhode Island.
This major development underscores Ohio’s growing leadership in advanced technology and defense manufacturing, positioning the state as a key player in the future of national security.
