Governor Youngkin to attend Farnborough Air Show to enhance Virginia’s aerospace sector
Richmond, Virginia – Governor Glenn Youngkin of Virginia has announced his plans to attend the Farnborough International Air Show in England, scheduled from July 21 to July 25. This strategic visit underscores Virginia’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its role as a global leader in the aerospace and defense industries.
Strengthening Global Ties
During his visit, Governor Youngkin will engage with top executives from aerospace companies, defense contractors, and other key industry stakeholders. The aim is to foster deeper connections, attract new businesses, and promote Virginia’s thriving aerospace sector on an international stage. “Our nation’s top aerospace and defense companies call the Commonwealth home and I look forward to growing our connections with industry leaders, recruiting new companies and showcasing what Virginia has to offer,” Governor Youngkin stated. He emphasized Virginia’s recent accolade as “the top state for business,” attributing this recognition to significant achievements in job growth, capital investments exceeding $74 billion, workforce development, and an outstanding education system.
Governor Youngkin’s message to global business leaders is clear: “Therefore, any companies looking to expand their footprint should choose Virginia, the choice is undeniable.”
Virginia’s Aerospace and Defense Milestones
Virginia has been a hub for aerospace innovation and development, hosting 68 aerospace and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) projects over the past decade. These initiatives have collectively contributed to the creation of over 4,200 jobs and attracted more than $850 million in investment.
The state is proud to host major industry players such as General Dynamics, Boeing, Silent Falcon UAS Technologies, Raytheon, and Rocket Lab USA, among others. Additionally, Virginia’s strategic assets include the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport and the NASA Wallops Flight Facility on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. This facility is notably one of only five locations in the United States licensed by the FAA to launch spacecraft into orbital trajectories.
Further bolstering its aerospace credentials, Virginia is home to the NASA Langley Research Center, the National Institute of Aerospace, and the Virginia Modeling, Analysis, and Simulation Center. These institutions play a crucial role in pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology and research, making Virginia an ideal destination for companies looking to innovate and expand.
A Strategic Platform for Collaboration
Governor Youngkin’s participation in the Farnborough International Air Show is not just an opportunity to showcase Virginia’s assets but also a platform to forge strategic partnerships and collaborations that could shape the future of the global aerospace and defense industry. As Virginia continues to lead in these sectors, the Commonwealth remains committed to innovation and excellence, reinforcing its position as a top choice for industry leaders worldwide.
