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 Invest $900 Million in New Drone Facility in Central Ohio

In a groundbreaking move for the state of Ohio, Anduril Industries has announced plans for a substantial investment of $900 million to build a state-of-the-art drone manufacturing facility. This initiative, dubbed “Arsenal-1,” is expected to create approximately 4,000 jobs by the year 2035, marking the largest single job creation effort in the history of Ohio.

Phases of Development

The initial phase of the project will focus on enhancing an existing warehouse near Rickenbacker International Airport. Building permits filed in Pickaway County indicate an investment of over $36 million for upgrades to a 773,114 square foot warehouse that Anduril has leased from CT Realty. This phase is slated for completion by 2025.

Following this, a second phase will kick off with the construction of a new facility that will span 924,352 square feet and will cost approximately $45 million. This new structure will also be located in the Rickenbacker Logistics Park.

Production Plans and Timeline

Once fully operational in 2035, the Arsenal-1 facility will total an impressive five million square feet, significantly boosting the region’s manufacturing capacity. Initial production will center around the Fury unmanned aircraft system, with plans to expand to include the Barracuda and Roadrunner drones thereafter. Production is anticipated to commence in 2026.

Financial Support and Investments

The project has garnered significant financial backing from the state, receiving nearly $832 million in support. This includes a $310 million JobsOhio Grant, various state tax credits, and additional funding to enhance logistics at Rickenbacker International Airport. Furthermore, the infrastructure at the airport will receive a $70 million investment to upgrade taxiways in light of the new facility’s requirements.

Lease Agreements and Future Expansion

To facilitate the construction of hangars and parking ramps, the Columbus Regional Airport Authority has granted Anduril a 50-year lease for 75 acres of land at Rickenbacker International Airport. The starting lease cost is $588,060 per year, with annual increments of 2% over the lease period. The lease terms include an option for a 25-year extension after the initial term.

Impact on the Local Economy

This substantial investment by Anduril is set to transform the Central Ohio area. With the promise of 4,000 new jobs and a boost in manufacturing capabilities, local businesses and communities are likely to feel the positive ripple effects. The infusion of advanced technology and manufacturing jobs will not only support economic growth but also position Ohio as a competitive player in the aerospace and defense industries.

Conclusion

Anduril Industries’ ambitious plans for the Arsenal-1 facility signify a major milestone in the state’s economic landscape. By creating thousands of jobs and investing in cutting-edge technology, the project holds the potential to redefine the future of drone manufacturing in Ohio and beyond.

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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