Utah's aerospace, defense, and security industry generated nearly $100 billion in total economic output in 2023, according to a report by EDC
Utah for 47G. The industry represented 19.2% of Utah's gross domestic product and contributed $1.6 billion in direct annual tax revenue.
The analysis by EDC
Utah included a broad definition of the industry, encompassing traditional manufacturing alongside sectors like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and machine learning. In 2023, the industry was linked to nearly 500,000 jobs. The research indicated that the industry has a doubling effect on employment with a multiple of 2.02, meaning every direct job results in another job due to indirect or induced effects.
Utah's industry is supported by various military installations and research facilities. Hill Air Force Base, which includes the Ogden Air Logistics Complex, specializes in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul. Other notable installations include Camp Williams, the Roland R. Wright National Guard Base, and the Tooele Army Depot. Research facilities such as the Space Dynamics Lab at Utah State University, Falcon Hill Aerospace and Research Park, and the Dugway Proving Grounds also contribute to the sector.
The report also noted the high ranking of Utah universities in the Technology Transfer and Commercialization Index by the Milken Institute. The University of Utah ranked first, and Brigham Young University ranked fourth, placing them above institutions such as Stanford University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Major companies contributing to the state's skilled labor force include Boeing, Duncan Aviation, L3
Harris, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman.
The EDC
Utah research team produces annual data on key industry clusters in Utah, providing information on cost comparisons, labor density, and key employers. This specific analysis was commissioned by 47G to quantify the economic impact of aerospace and defense activity and its adjacent industries, such as advanced materials manufacturing and cybersecurity technology.
