Experience the Innovation of #MightyMS at Farnborough

By William Cork , Executive Director, Mississippi Development Authority

The state of Mississippi is a thriving hub for aerospace innovation and excellence. As we gear up for the Farnborough International Airshow, one of the world's most prestigious aerospace events, I am proud to share insights into Mississippi’s remarkable contributions to the aerospace sector and extend a warm invitation to visit with the Mississippi delegation in person at Farnborough.

Mississippi's aerospace industry is booming thanks in part to our state’s innovative spirit, our mighty strong aerospace workforce and an encouraging business climate that is conducive to development and prosperity. We boast an impressive portfolio of aerospace companies, from global giants to brilliant startups, all of which contribute to a vibrant ecosystem that fuels technological advancements and spurs economic growth. Key players like Rolls-Royce, Airbus, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman are among the impressive roster of aerospace leaders with significant operations in Mississippi.

Our state also is home to notable commercial space companies, including Aerojet Rocketdyne, Relativity Space and Rocket Lab, all of which are pioneering the future of space exploration and satellite technology. Located at NASA’s Stennis Space Center on the Gulf Coast, these companies are leveraging Mississippi's strategic advantages to develop and test cutting-edge space technologies.

In the realm of unmanned aerial systems, companies like WISPR, Stark Aerospace and Skydweller Aero are developing advanced drones and autonomous systems that have applications in defense, agriculture and infrastructure monitoring. These three companies are sterling examples of Mississippi's versatility in this rapidly growing sector.

Mississippi’s expertise in aviation technology and sensor companies is exemplified by companies like RTX, Aurora Flight Sciences and GE Aerospace. These three industry leaders are representative of the world-class innovators shaping the future of avionics, sensor systems and aircraft components that enhance the capabilities of manned and unmanned aircraft – all from communities throughout Mississippi.

Our state also is a leader in autonomous maritime and defense technologies. Companies like Huntington Ingalls Industries, Leidos and Bollinger are developing vessels and maritime defense systems that contribute to both national security and commercial maritime operations – systems often integrated with both aviation and subsurface equipment. Mississippi boasts an ideal location and abundant ranges for the testing and evaluation of aviation-based systems and their array of uses.

In addition to our thriving aerospace sector, Mississippi is a cornerstone for aviation education and training. Meridian’s Naval Air Station, Keesler Air Force Base and Columbus Air Force Base offer premier military flight training, preparing pilots for service with progressive instruction and simulation technologies. These military installations play a critical role in training the next generation of Navy and Air Force pilots, contributing to the overall strength and readiness of the U.S. military.

Delta State University’s flight training programs are widely known for producing skilled commercial pilots that excel in various aviation careers. With advanced simulators and comprehensive training modules, Delta State is vital to the growth of professional aviators.

Pearl River Community College’s Aviation Aerospace Workforce Academy near Stennis International Airport offers specialized training in aerospace technology, maintenance and operations. PRCC’s strategic location provides students with hands-on experience in a vibrant aerospace environment, ensuring they are ready to take on careers in the industry.

Mississippi State University's ASSURE (Alliance for System Safety of UAS through Research Excellence) program stands at the forefront of unmanned aerial systems research and development. As a key part of the Federal Aviation Administration's UAS Center of Excellence, ASSURE conducts vital research on UAS safety, performance and integration. The location of Raspet Flight Research Laboratory at MSU further bolsters the university’s stance as a leader in aerospace research.

The remarkable list of advantages offered by a Mississippi location contribute to the success of some of the world’s most renowned aerospace innovators. Our central location in the southeastern United States offers easy access to major markets and aerospace corridors. Our infrastructure, including robust rail, road and air transport systems, facilitates seamless operations and logistics for aerospace companies. Additionally, 15 ports strategically located along the Mississippi River, Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway and the Gulf of Mexico, which is home to two deepwater ports, are ideal for companies that require efficient access to international markets.

Mississippi also is a leader in advanced manufacturing with extensive R&D pioneering solutions in aerospace production. From the assembly of sophisticated avionics to the manufacture of complex components, we truly are at the forefront of innovation and efficiency in aerospace. The list of companies mentioned just in this article alone are some of the top in the industry, and we have barely scraped the surface. Also, the momentum our aerospace industry has experienced in recent years shows zero signs of slowing down any time soon.

At Mississippi Development Authority, we actively support aerospace businesses through a range of resources, including grants and development programs. Our commitment to developing and maintaining a pro-business environment ensures companies have access to the tools they need to succeed and grow in our state.

Additionally, collaboration between industry, government and academia is key to the success of Mississippi’s aerospace industry. Initiatives such as the Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi facilitate partnerships and knowledge exchange while driving continuous improvement and industry innovation.

Mississippi also currently serves as the chair of the Aerospace Alliance, which includes Louisiana, Alabama and Florida. As part of this alliance, which was formed to establish the Southeast U.S. as a world-class aviation and aerospace corridor, Mississippi contributes significantly to a regional aerospace sector valued at over $20 billion. This collaboration significantly enhances the region's competitiveness in the global aerospace market.

The upcoming Farnborough International Airshow gives us a strong platform to showcase Mississippi’s aerospace capabilities on the global stage. Our state’s delegation is eager to connect with industry leaders, innovators and potential partners who share our passion for aerospace excellence.

By stopping by to visit the Mississippi team at Booth #2130 in the USA Pavilion, you will have the opportunity to learn firsthand about the latest advancements undertaken by Mississippi’s aerospace companies, including breakthroughs in manufacturing, avionics and space exploration. That’s right – space exploration. NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Hancock County is the space organization’s largest rocket engine test facility. To get to the moon and Mars, you must first go through Mighty Mississippi.

I genuinely hope you will take this exciting opportunity to engage with members of our team to discuss potential collaborations, opportunities and ways to leverage the benefits of a partnership with Mississippi.

Our aerospace industry is a testament to our state’s commitment to innovation, quality and economic vitality. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue our journey as a leader in aerospace technology and development.

Again, I invite you to visit the Mighty Mississippi team at Booth #2130 in the USA Pavilion to experience in person the ingenuity that is shaping the future of aerospace. Join us in celebrating our achievements and exploring the transformative possibilities that await us in this exciting sector.

We look forward to meeting you at Farnborough!