Fort Worth is officially recognized as the leading aviation and defense capital in the state of Texas
Fort Worth, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott officially designated Fort Worth as the “Aviation and Defense Capital of Texas” by signing House Concurrent Resolution 142. The announcement came during a Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership (EDP) luncheon, where more than 100 leaders gathered to recognize the city’s growing influence in these critical sectors.
A Hub of Innovation and Economic Strength
Fort Worth has long played a leading role in aerospace and defense, and this new designation reaffirms its importance. The city’s aerospace industry reaches far beyond airplane manufacturing, extending into the production of advanced systems such as drones, unmanned aircraft, and missiles.
Currently, the six-county region that includes Fort Worth employs more than 23,500 people in the aerospace and defense sector, with an average salary exceeding $100,000. This thriving ecosystem supports over 600 aerospace and defense-related companies. Major industry players like Bell and Lockheed Martin maintain a strong presence in the area, highlighting Fort Worth’s role as a key center for both innovation and production.
Governor Abbott praised the city’s leadership and vision during the signing, as reported by the EDP. “Fort Worth continues to set the pace for Texas in aerospace and defense excellence,” the event celebrated.
New Investments Reinforce Fort Worth’s Role
Recent projects show that the sector’s momentum is only growing. Brazilian aerospace company Embraer announced plans for new maintenance and overhaul facilities at Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport. GE On Wing Support Inc. also expanded its footprint with a new facility near DFW Airport, while AVX Aircraft Co. selected AllianceTexas for its headquarters.
According to the EDP, these investments will bring over $120 million in capital investment to the city and generate more than 350 jobs, further solidifying Fort Worth’s reputation.
Statewide Recognition and National Impact
Beyond the local scale, Texas ranks second nationally in the number of aerospace establishments and is first in defense spending. Fort Worth’s new title emphasizes not only its local achievements but its strategic importance in both state and national defense planning.
With this recognition, Fort Worth strengthens its identity as a core engine of the U.S. aerospace and defense landscape — a city where innovation meets mission-critical production.
