By: Michael Jenson, MBA, and David Lloyd 

As America has woken up to realities of global conflict, a rapidly advancing foreign technological landscape, and clarity on limitations in our supply chain, manufacturing speed, and reliance on aging infrastructure, there is an urgent need for the revitalization of our industrial base within the U.S. to protect and defend our national interests. Bolstered by its robust economy and talent pipeline, innovation-forward mentality, geographical position, and experienced technological skillset, Utah is emerging as a go-to powerhouse in the revitalization of American Dynamism. As the fastest growing state in the country, Utah is leading the charge for American ingenuity and the re-establishment of dynamic aerospace, energy, and defense capabilities. The state is home to critical military and national security installations, top defense contractors, and innovative startups with a deep focus on growth and advancements in technology. This makes Utah a desirable destination for federal defense funding, private sector investment, expanded corporate and manufacturing hubs, and collaborative development of critical national security initiatives. With a storied history of innovation, from rockets and drones to cybersecurity and the only active uranium mill in the U.S., Utah employs over 30,000 people across approximately 1,000 companies in aerospace, and significantly more in defense. Given these factors, along with a combination of new investments, academic leading research institutes, and increased legislative support, Utah is well-positioned as a national front-runner to enable the future of American aerospace and defense projects.

INTRODUCTION

Scope of Paper

This paper serves as a roadmap for stakeholders across government, industry, and education, poised to leverage Utah’s expanding role in defense, aerospace, and emerging technologies. It highlights key companies and state involvement, examines the state’s strategic advantages, and explores a handful of initiatives shaping its future. Additionally, the paper provides insights into natural resources, such as minerals, precious metals, and energy sources vital to national security. It also details Cicero Group’s role in empowering innovation across these sectors, including efforts to support our veterans and American workforce. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for stakeholders to harness Utah’s strengths and potential within aerospace and defense.

A State for Entrepreneurs

Utah has earned a national reputation as a center for entrepreneurship and innovation, creating a thriving environment where companies looking to grow are able to flourish. The state consistently ranks among the nation’s leaders in entrepreneurship, with Salt Lake City and Provo frequently cited as top cities in the country for startups due to their access to funding, high-quality talent, and extensive business networks. Utah is home to a plethora of companies that have grown into influential players on the national and global stages. This began decades ago with early tech and software ventures that laid the foundation for a vibrant startup culture. Many are nationally recognized, including notable tech companies like Qualtrics, Adobe, and Pluralsight that all reached multi-billion-dollar valuations, achieved successful exits, and are among the early leaders in establishing Utah as a modern hub for technology and entrepreneurship. These companies represent a fraction of the many successful startups to come out of Utah across various sectors and highlight the state’s ability to nurture innovative companies that scale rapidly. This track record of startup success continues to attract entrepreneurs and investors, driven by a collaborative culture, extensive venture capital opportunities, and supportive state programs, making it one of the fastest-growing regions for innovation in the U.S. Additionally, Utah residents speak more languages than any other state in the nation, making it uniquely equipped to engage globally.

Utah as the National Epicenter for Aerospace and Defense Innovation

As global conflicts continue to emerge, and increased turmoil among nations threatens the stability of international trade, the U.S will need to build stronger innovation hubs for aerospace, defense, and manufacturing within its own borders. These critical sites will require the full spectrum of capabilities from startups to industry leaders, focused on novel solutions that will need to be readily available. Utah’s ascent as an aerospace and defense leader is not a recent development, but rather the result of decades of hard work, investment, and infrastructure development. The state’s contribution to national security includes next-generation technologies, an extensive network of defense contractors, and a healthy talent pool from institutions and universities dedicated to research and development. In addition, Utah boasts an abundance of natural resources considered essential for manufacturing and defense technology, positioning the state as a critical supplier for national security. Furthermore, the collaboration of the former Utah Aerospace and Defense Association (UADA) and the Utah Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Initiative (UAMMI) forming what is now known as the 47G initiative is set to strengthen Utah’s focus on military technology and manufacturing, further positioning the state as a critical hub and supply chain destination for the aerospace and defense industries. With its rich mineral resources and strong partnerships between industry, government, and academia, Utah is well equipped to lead in national security efforts and next-generation technologies for years to come.

“20% of Utah’s annual economic activity is tied to aerospace, defense, space exploration, and adjacent industries. With 13 military installations, Delta’s fastest-growing U.S. hub, and other initiatives supporting our community, this industry will shape Utah’s future in critical and exciting ways. Importantly, this industry is founded on collaborative partnerships, infrastructure, and programs that will propel the community forward.” – Aaron Starks, CEO, 47G

UTAH’S STRATEGIC ADVANTAGES AND INFRASTRUCTURE

Economics

The state’s business-friendly environment, characterized by competitive tax incentives and robust support for the aerospace and defense sectors, attracts significant investment. The defense and aerospace segments have seen significant growth as a result.

• The Gardner Policy Institute and other agencies report that defense contributed to over $19.3 billion in Utah’s GDP in 2021, which at the time accounted for around 10.6% of Utah’s total GDP
• In the same year, the Department of Defense spent $6.3 billion on defense contracts in Utah.
• The economic impact of new defense jobs has been significant in Utah, particularly with the expansion of prime contractors such as Northrop Grumman. Northrop Grumman’s recent expansions alone are projected to create over 1,200 high paying jobs in the state over the next 20 years, with wages averaging $118,000 per year.
• This influx of jobs will generate more than $2.74 billion in total wages, and an estimated $356.4 million in new state tax revenue during that period.

Hill Air Force Base, a cornerstone of Utah’s defense sector, serves as a major hub for aerospace activities, supporting everything from aircraft maintenance to advanced logistics operations.

• As the second-largest air force base in the U.S., it plays a vital role in the state’s economy, contributing an impressive $11.0 billion annually in economic impact.
• The $1.6 billion payroll and the presence of the installation also drive significant growth in the Utah economy.

Utah is also home to Falcon Hill Aerospace Research Park, one of the largest enhanced-use lease initiatives in the United States, and a major hub for aerospace research where private sector companies collaborate with military personnel. This significant infrastructure, along with Utah’s innovation driven culture and strong educational network, continually nurtures a talent pool rich with engineers, manufacturers, and technology experts. Utah consistently ranks as one of the top states in the nation for aerospace and defense employment, with a workforce of over 32,000 professionals, helping to further cement its position as a leader in national defense talent.

Educational

Additionally, Utah’s emphasis on STEM education, supported by top universities like Utah State University, Weber State University, and the University of Utah, produces a highly skilled workforce with well-developed research capabilities ready to meet industry demands.

Utah State University’s Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) has been a key contributor pivotal in aerospace and defense research for over 60 years, solving technical challenges for the Department of Defense, NASA, and other aerospace and defense agencies. SDL primarily focuses on developing satellites, sensors, ground systems, and autonomous systems to enhance national security. Additionally, Utah State’s Aerospace Engineering program trains engineers who often work in the defense and aerospace sectors, with career opportunities at Boeing and Northrop Grumman as well as federal agencies like NASA and the Department of Defense.

Weber State University boasts its own advanced research and solutions laboratory at Falcon Hill Aerospace Research Park. The Miller Advanced Research and Solutions Laboratory collaborates closely with Hill Air Force Base and other industry partners to address challenges faced in advanced manufacturing using composite materials essential for aerospace applications.

Along with Utah and Weber State, The University of Utah plays a significant role in advancing aerospace innovation through its Aerospace Hub, which fosters collaboration between faculty, students, and industry partners to drive research efforts in next-generation technologies. Areas of focus include computational design, aerodynamics, flow control, and material science, all of which are crucial in developing defense systems used by the military. As a leading research institution, The University of Utah also excels in autonomous systems and cybersecurity research for military and national defense use.

Local Agency Support

Utah benefits from staunch support from state and local governments, which actively promote the aerospace and defense industries through various initiatives. Programs like the Utah Aerospace Pathways (UAP)XI program provide students with education and training opportunities, aligning with the needs of the aerospace and defense sectors. The Utah Industrial Assistance Fund also provides a state-sponsored financial incentive program designed to promote job creation and economic growth by encouraging aerospace and defense businesses to expand their operations in Utah. The program supports development through grants, loans, and financial aid to bring new projects and jobs to the state.

The Utah government has also played a crucial role in supporting the 47G initiative, aiming to work alongside this group to position Utah as a global leader in aerospace, defense, and cyber technologies. A plethora of current and former state representatives as well as industry leaders have joined the 47G movement, bringing with them a wealth of experience, industry knowledge, and political acumen to help steer Utah’s aerospace and defense strategy. This effort has facilitated public and private partnerships and collaborations with major defense contractors, public institutions, and growing enterprises, and Utah is now projected to double defense spending in the state in the coming years. This alliance between government, industry, and institutions encourages a conducive environment for growth and innovation.

Geographic

Utah’s central location in the Western United States provides logistical advantages, with easy access to both coasts and other major national defense hubs, facilitating efficient transportation and supply chain management from the state. The state is also developing what is known as the Utah Inland Port, which enhances logistics by linking rail, road, and air transportation systems to major domestic and international markets. Along with these logistical advantages, the state’s diverse geographic landscape of mountains, deserts, and plains provides a variety of environments for military training and testing. The lower risk of natural disaster compared to states like California and Florida makes it a more stable and strategic location for critical defense infrastructure and large-scale aerospace projects. Utah is also home to sites such as Dugway Proving Grounds, an Army facility set up in 1942 in the western desert of Utah. This site is one of the largest military testing facilities in the United States, encompassing 800,000 acres of land, used for testing chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense systems. Dugway is also involved in weapons testing, aerospace, and drone research and has been a key location for space-related landing site activities. Its isolated location makes it an ideal spot for these activities and plays an essential role in ensuring safety, security, and effectiveness of the U.S. military’s defense capabilities.

PIONEERING INNOVATION AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES

Synergies and Collaboration

Utah is a hotbed of innovation, particularly in emerging technologies. The state’s vibrant tech ecosystem, supported by both established companies and startups, drives advancements in these areas. Institutions such as the University of Utah and Utah State University contribute heavily to research and development efforts in autonomous systems, cybersecurity, quantum computing, robotics and drones, and advanced manufacturing.

“Utah bolsters an economy that is vibrant and diverse. That means companies can find niche R&D capabilities, faculty and staff members leading various industry related projects, innovative policies, and a young work force. Capital performs better in Utah, as this state is a safe haven for all beyond the state’s borders with ambitions of expansion.” – Aaron Starks, CEO, 47G

The synergy between Utah’s industry and academia is evident in successful collaborations and technological breakthroughs. Partnerships between the University of Utah and local technology companies have led to advancements in AI and robotics, enhancing capabilities in automation and machine learning. These collaborations not only advance progress, but also provide valuable training and employment opportunities for Utah’s workforce. It is also worth mentioning again that Utah’s largest industry associations in defense, academia, government, and manufacturing have recently combined forces to expand the national security sector through 47G. The merger between 47G, which is Utah’s association of aerospace, defense, and cyber/tech applications, and UAMMI (Utah’s advanced materials and manufacturing initiative) brings military technology, defense innovation, specialized mineral extraction, and manufacturing organizations together under one roof.

Technology Focus and Innovation

Utah’s potential in deep-tech innovation extends beyond traditional aerospace and defense technologies and is driven by the state’s top universities and tech companies. The state has long been known as the home of the “Silicon Slopes,” a nickname for the growing tech hub found in Utah. Utah is heavily focused on growth areas such as quantum computing, robotics, and semiconductor research. Institutions also play a large part in research, including the University of Utah which spearheads projects like the Responsible AI Initiative and the Utah Network for Integrated Computing and Semiconductor Research (UNICOS)XVI. These efforts are focused on advancing secure and ethical AI applications and cutting-edge semiconductor technologies for national defense capabilities and technological competitiveness. Other companies and organizations are focused on pioneering within similar deep-tech fields including: •

• Fortem Technologies based out of Lehi, Utah, is taking airspace security for defense to new heights with autonomous systems and drones that track and mitigate malicious drones for defense clients as well as for overall public safety.
• Drones have become a main area of focus in Utah, exemplified by Project Alta and other air mobility initiatives. Led by the 47G initiative in collaboration with the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT), Project Alta aims to expand drone delivery services, establish cargo transport systems, and eventually introduce air taxis for passenger travel in the state.
• Palladyne, formerly known as Sarcos Robotics, has shifted focus to developing advanced AI software for robotic systems for industrial and military sectors that will enhance autonomous capabilities in critical operations. It supports not only traditional robotics but also UAVs (drones), UGVs (ground vehicles), and ROVs (remote-operated vehicles).

Cybersecurity is a cornerstone of Utah’s tech landscape, with the state playing host to several companies specializing in cyber defense and intelligence technologies.

• Strider Technologies is a Utah-based firm dedicated to economic and national security risk management. Strider’s platform helps organizations protect their intellectual property and trade secrets, identifying vulnerabilities in supply chains and research partnerships to prevent state-sponsored espionage. Their work has become essential in ensuring that sensitive information, particularly in sectors like defense and aerospace, is shielded from theft and foreign influence. Strider’s proactive approach to risk detection complements the broader cybersecurity ecosystem in Utah, now crucial in protecting the nation’s technological and defense infrastructure.
• The Utah Cybersecurity Center provides vital training and resources to strengthen the state’s cyber defenses. Working closely with federal agencies such as CISA, the FBI, and the Department of Homeland Security, the center coordinates incident responses to emerging national security threats.

These efforts are essential in safeguarding classified data and ensuring the integrity of defense systems. Utah also plays a critical role in national intelligence efforts through the NSA’s Utah Data Center in Bluffdale, one of the largest intelligence facilities of its kind. The center is responsible for gathering, analyzing, and securely storing vast amounts of data from around the globe, further positioning Utah as a leader in both cyber defense and intelligence operations.

NATURAL RESOURCES, ENERGY, AND NATIONAL SECURITY

Overview of Mineral Resources

Utah is rich in a variety of critical minerals and precious metals essential for defense and high-tech industries. The state’s diverse geological landscape offers abundant resources, including copper, gold, silver, uranium, and rare earth elements (REEs). Utah mines can provide 40 out of 50 minerals that the Department of Homeland Security has identified as critical to the national security of the United States, making it a logical next step to unite the groups advocating for the state’s growing defense and mineral sectors.

Strategic Importance

The availability and secure supply of these minerals are crucial for national security. Copper, for instance, is indispensable for electrical wiring and electronic components, while rare earth elements are vital for advanced electronics and defense systems. Utah boasts the largest copper mine in the United States with the Kennecott Copper Mine about 25 miles from Salt Lake City, an essential aspect of the state’s economy and the national industrial sector. The collaboration between industry and the government in Utah ensures responsible mining practices and secures critical supply chains, reducing dependence on foreign sources, and positioning Utah as a critical supplier nationally for defense.

Utah’s Energy Landscape

Utah’s energy sector is diverse, encompassing both traditional and renewable energy sources. The state’s significant reserves of natural resources, including coal, oil, and natural gas are complemented by growing investments in renewable energy, such as geothermal, solar, and nuclear power. Governor Spencer Cox recently announced an initiative called “Operation Gigawatt,” a project focused on doubling Utah’s power production over the decade. This plan aims to expand transmission capacity, invest in sustainable energy sources like geothermal and nuclear energy, and leverage Utah’s diverse energy portfolio to enhance policies that support reliable energy to stimulate research to secure a future as a leading energy developer nationwide (XIX).

Utah is also advancing its renewable energy portfolio with the FORGE Geothermal project in Milford, Beaver County. Managed by the University of Utah and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, FORGE looks to unlock next-generation geothermal energy through advanced researchXX. With a secured $80 million in funding through 2028, the project is testing enhanced geothermal systems that could provide a sustainable and scalable energy source. Utah notably ranks third nationally in geothermal production and is focused on increasing emissions-free power for future sustainability.

There are also new companies rethinking what is possible with forms of alternative energy. Torus, a new company based in Salt Lake, is focused on implementing energy changes in Utah, specializing in renewable energy storage and management systems. Their core product, the Torus Station, integrates renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower to create, store, and manage clean energy alternatives. This system not only reduces electricity costs, but can also provide backup power during outages, and is a more sustainable option for manufacturing facilities and data centers (XXI). 

Nuclear Industry Contributions

Utah’s role in the nuclear industry includes uranium mining and the development of nuclear energy solutions, along with hosting facilities for waste disposal and supporting research into advanced nuclear technologies. One of the key assets in the state is the White Mesa Mill, which is the only operational conventional uranium mill in the United States (XXII). This mill in Southeastern Utah processes uranium from mines and prepares it for use in nuclear reactors. Operation Gigawatt will also focus heavily on Utah’s uranium mining efforts and will position Utah to play a vital role in supporting the country’s energy needs. These contributions are critical for both civilian energy needs and defense applications, providing an alternative, reliable source of power and supporting the country’s strategic interests.

“Utah is rapidly establishing itself as a global hub for innovation and excellence,” said Greg Levesque, CEO & Co-founder of Strider Technologies. “The state’s forward-thinking approach to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and growth has created an unparalleled environment for success, especially in the aerospace and defense industry. From its highly educated workforce to its collaborative ecosystem, Utah provides the tools and talent necessary to drive meaningful progress. We’re excited to continue scaling our operations in Salt Lake City, attracting top talent, and contributing to the dynamic economic and technological advancements that make Utah a beacon for the future.” – Greg Levesque, CEO & Co-Founder, Strider Technologies

CONCLUSION

Utah’s strategic advantages-ranging from its robust industrial base and institutions, its culture of innovation, and highly skilled workforce-position it as a key player in the aerospace, defense, and emerging tech sectors. The state’s contributions across various industries, from AI, cybersecurity, and robotics to defense systems and energy and minerals underscore its potential as a hub for technological advancement and national security. The 47G initiative further strengthens Utah’s role in national security, emphasizing growing partnerships between industry, government, and academia.

To capitalize on these strengths, stakeholders (including government entities, private investors, educational institutions, and other industry leaders) should focus on fostering collaboration, investing in education, infrastructure, and emerging technologies. Private and public collaboration will be a key driver in securing funding for STEM education and business development to ensure that Utah remains a pivotal player in national security efforts. Cicero is excited to partner with organizations across the defense and aerospace landscape, offering strategic insights and impact-driven solutions to help leverage the unique advantages that Utah provides to further build the future of our defense and aerospace industry.

ABOUT CICERO ®

Overview

Cicero® is a premier management consulting firm focused on implementing data-driven strategies for a broad mix of private, public, and social sector organizations across the globe. We use data and experience to generate insights, create actionable strategies, and drive transformation with the overarching purpose of helping people create and continuously deliver extraordinary results. Cicero is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, with additional offices in Washington D.C., Dallas, New York, and Mumbai.

Value Proposition

Cicero has a proven track record of supporting innovation and growth across a variety of industries. The firm has assisted numerous startups in securing funding and developing business strategies, leading to successful market entries and expansions. Cicero has also collaborated with a number of prominent government, federal, and non-profit entities including the U.S Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and The Wounded Warrior Project. Our work with nationally serving organizations enhances our capability to assist enterprises in developing business strategies and successful market expansions and to develop positioning and public engagement strategies to grow their share of voice. At Cicero, we aim to take part in advancing Utah’s critical industries, including defense, AI, cybersecurity, and energy by leveraging expertise in data-driven decision-making, strategic partnerships, and industry-specific insights to encourage collaboration and progress, enhance competition, and drive sustainable growth for clients across multiple sectors.

REFERENCES

I. Aerospace Wales Forum. “Utah Aerospace and Defense Profile.” Aerospace Wales Forum, https://www.aerospacewalesforum.com/wp-content/uploads/Utah.pdf.

II. Deseret News. “47G Merges with Advanced Manufacturing Association to Bolster Utah’s Defense Industry.” Deseret News, 13 May 2024, https://www.deseret.com/utah/2024/05/13/47g-utah-defense association-merges-with-advanced-manufacturing-association-aaron-starks/.

III. Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. “Defense Industry Contributes $19.3 Billion to Utah Economy.” Gardner Institute, 1 June 2023, www.gardner.utah.edu/news/defense-industry-contributes-19-3-billion-to-utah-economy/.

IV. Larsen, Kaitlyn. “Utah’s Defense and Aerospace Industry Is Booming Amid Global Conflicts.” KUER, 3 June 2024, www.kuer.org/business-economy/2024-06-03/utahs-defense-and-aerospace-industry-is-booming-amid-global-conflicts

V. Davis Journal. “Northrop Grumman Announces Expansion Project in Utah.” Davis Journal, 22 Feb. 2024, https://www.davisjournal.com/2024/02/22/481746/northrop-grumman-announces-expansion-project.\

VI. “Hill Economic Impact 2023.” Hill Air Force Base, U.S. Air Force, 2023, www.hill.af.mil/Portals/58/documents/Hill%20Economic%20Impact%202023.pdf

VII. Utah Business. “Utah’s Aerospace and Defense Industry Is Boosting Commercial Real Estate.” Utah Business, 3 Apr. 2024, https://www.utahbusiness.com/building-development/2024/04/03/utahs-aerospaceand-defense-industry-is-boosting-commercial-real-estate/.

VIII. “Northern Utah’s Booming Aerospace and Defense Industry Is About to Get a Lot Louder.” Northern Utah Economic Alliance, 15 Mar.2021, nuea.org/2021/03/15/northern-utahs-booming-aerospace-anddefense-industry-is-about-to-get-a-lot-louder/

IX. Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory. “Overview of SDL’s Contributions to Aerospace and Defense.” SDL, https://sdl.usu.edu/.

X. University of Utah Research. “Utah Aerospace Hub.” University of Utah https://stage.research.umc.utah.edu/utah-aerospace-hub/

XI. “Talent Ready Utah and Partners Announce the Expansion of the Utah Aerospace Pathways Program in Tooele.” Business.utah.gov,26 Apr. 2023, www.business.utah.gov/news/talent-ready-utah-and-partnersannounce-the-expansion-of-the-utah-aerospace-pathways-program-in-tooele/

XII. “Utah Industrial Assistance Fund.” Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, cobi.utah.gov/fund/1054.

XIII. “47G Unveils Technologies on Capitol Hill.” Utah Business, 25 Jan. 2024, www.utahbusiness.com/press-releases/2024/01/25/47g-unveils-technologies-on-capitol-hill/.

XIV. DroneDJ. “Utah’s Project Alta to Develop Drone Delivery System.” DroneDJ, 12 June 2024, https://www.dronedj.com/2024/06/12/utah-project-alta-drone-delivery/.

XV. KSL. “Utah Aerospace Association’s Rebrand Honors Industry Pioneers and Expanding Vision.” KSL News, 15 Oct. 2024, https://www.ksl.com/article/50751536/utah-aerospace-associations-rebrand-honorsindustry-pioneers-expanding-vision.

XVI. “The University of Utah Launches Utah Network for Integrated Computing and Semiconductor Research and Education.” DavidEccles School of Business, 13 Oct. 2023,https://www.price.utah.edu/2023/10/13/the-university-of-utah-launches-utah-network-for-integrated-computing-and-semiconductor-research-and-education.

XVII. “Sarcos Robotics Is Now Palladyne AI.” Palladyne AI, investor.palladyneai.com/news-releases/news-release-details/sarcos-robotics-now-palladyne-ai.

XVIII. “Utah’s Minerals Are Critical to National Security.” Deseret News, 19 July 2024, www.deseret.com/brandview/2024/07/19/utahs-minerals-are-critical-to-national-security.

XIX. Office of Governor Spencer Cox. “Governor Cox Unveils Operation Gigawatt to Secure Utah’s Energy Future.” Utah Governor’s Office,8 Oct. 2024, www.governor.utah.gov/2024/10/08/news-release-gov-coxunveils-operation-gigawatt/.

XX. Deseret News. “Utah Expands Geothermal Energy Research with $80 Million Investment.” Deseret News, 7 Oct. 2024, www.deseret.com/utah/2024/10/07/geothermal-energy-utah-money/.\

XXI. “Torus to Create 172 High-Paying Jobs in Utah.” Area Development, 18 Sept. 2024, www.areadevelopment.com/newsitems/9-18-2024/torus-south-salt-lake-city-utah.shtml. Accessed 21 Oct. 2024.

XXII. “Utah Has the Last Conventional Uranium Mill in the Country—What Does It Do?” MIT Climate Portal, 15 Feb. 2023, https://climate.mit.edu/posts/utah-has-last-conventional-uranium-mill-country-whatdoes-it-do

APPENDIX

Major Players, Startups, and Initiatives in Utah

Utah hosts several prominent aerospace and defense initiatives, each contributing significantly to the state’s economic growth and technological advancements. Here are a few of the more exciting players and projects currently operating in Utah, some of which have been mentioned previously.

• • Northrop Grumman: A global leader in security and defense, Northrop Grumman’s operations in Utah focus on space exploration, missile defense systems, and advanced manufacturing. The company’s involvement in the Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent program, a major initiative aimed at modernizing the United States’ intercontinental ballistic missile system, underscores its strategic importance in the state of Utah.
  • L3Harris Technologies: Known for its expertise in communication systems, avionics, and electronics, L3Harris has a substantial presence in Utah. The company’s work on secure communication systems has been vital for military operations, ensuring reliable and secure information exchange. This includes the development of advanced tactical radios and satellite communication systems used by defense forces worldwide.
  • Boeing: Boeing’s Utah operations are integral to its global supply chain, focusing on advanced composite materials and manufacturing techniques. These innovations are critical for producing lighter, more durable aircraft components.
  • Advanced Air Mobility (AAM): The advanced air mobility initiative in Utah focuses on transforming how goods and people are transported through electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. AAM is an advanced system to integrate air travel within existing infrastructure to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and provide efficient mobility solutions. State legislators have appropriated over $3 million for AAM initiatives.
  • Project Alta: Project Alta’s goal is to establish a comprehensive and integrated eVTOL air logistics and transportation system under the AAM initiative led by 47G in partnership with the Governor’s office, UDOT, and the Utah inland port authority. With aerospace, defense, and cyber companies already making up a sizable portion of Utah’s economy, the plan includes utilizing these companies to expand current drone delivery services, establishing reliable cargo transport systems, and eventually allowing passenger travel through air taxis XIV.
  • Palladyne: Palladyne, formerly Sarcos Robotics, operates in Utah, developing AI software for robotic systems in industrial and military sectors. The company focuses on enhancing autonomous capabilities for unmanned ground vehicles and robotic systems in hazardous environments. Palladyne’s work supports Utah’s growth as a hub for military technology innovation, particularly in defense and aerospace applications.
  • Strider Technologies: Strider Technologies is a Utah-based firm that moved from Washington D.C. in 2021, specializing in economic and national security risk management. The company focuses on protecting organizations’ intellectual property and sensitive information from espionage and cyber threats. Strider’s proactive approach in detecting risks makes it a key player in supporting national security efforts in the defense and aerospace sectors.
  • Fortem Technologies: Fortem specializes in airspace and defense security solutions. Their efforts are primarily focused on counter-drone technology, using radar systems and AI powered software to detect, track and mitigate malicious drones and ensure safety for airspace and infrastructure.
  • Torus: Torus, based in Salt Lake City, offers secure and scalable energy solutions for diverse applications. Their focus is on providing reliable energy storage, efficient management, and robust cybersecurity, addressing the nation’s growing energy demands with advanced, resilient technology. Their Nova Spin battery was named one of the best inventions of this year in Time Magazine.