Defense Sector

Missouri Powers Military Aviation

Missouri is a leader in fighter jet production and advanced manufacturing, playing a crucial role in the defense sector. The state is home to cutting-edge facilities where the F-15EX and F/A-18 Super Hornet are meticulously crafted, showcasing the expertise and innovation of its workforce.

Missouri is America's military aircraft manufacturing hub. The state's world-class Boeing Defense operations in St. Louis produce the F-15EX and F/A-18 Super Hornet alongside advanced defense systems, making Missouri one of the most important military.

Careers & Opportunities in Missouri

01

Aircraft Assembly Tech

Build F-15EX and F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter aircraft on Boeing's St. Louis production lines. Entry accessible with technical training and strong union pathways to premium manufacturing wages.

02

Aircraft Maintenance Tech

Maintain and service military aircraft at Whiteman AFB and Scott AFB, including B-2 stealth bombers, F-15s, and C-17 cargo aircraft supporting global airlift and strategic bomber missions.

03

Composite Manufacturing Tech

Fabricate and assemble advanced composite airframe structures and components for military aircraft at Boeing's St. Louis campus and Missouri's defense aerospace supplier network.

04

Defense Systems Tech

Build and integrate weapons systems, avionics, and defense electronics into military aircraft and platforms across Missouri's Boeing and defense contractor manufacturing operations.

Companies Driving Growth

Boeing Defense anchors Missouri's military aviation economy alongside Whiteman AFB's B-2 mission and a growing network of aerospace suppliers building fighter and bomber components statewide.

Boeing Defense

📍 St. Louis, MO

Boeing's St. Louis campus builds the F-15EX Eagle II and F/A-18 Super Hornet for the US Air Force and Navy, employing thousands of Missouri aircraft assembly and manufacturing technicians.

Spirit AeroSystems

📍 St. Louis, MO

Spirit AeroSystems manufactures advanced fuselage structures and aerostructures for Boeing military aircraft in Missouri, employing precision manufacturing and composites technicians across its operations.

L3Harris Technologies

📍 St. Louis, MO

L3Harris operates communications and electronic warfare systems programs in Missouri, supporting Boeing and Air Force customers with advanced defense electronics and mission systems technology.

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Why Choose Missouri

Shipyard workers Virginia
01

Fighter Jet Manufacturing Excellence

Missouri builds the F-15EX and F/A-18, two of the most capable fighter aircraft in American service, creating world-class manufacturing careers for technicians who want to work on high-profile military platforms.

02

B-2 Stealth Bomber Base

Whiteman AFB is home to all operational B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, creating rare and prestigious maintenance careers supporting the most iconic aircraft in the US strategic bomber fleet.

03

Strong Boeing Union Wages

Boeing's St. Louis defense operations are covered by strong union agreements that deliver industry-leading wages, comprehensive benefits, and job security for Missouri's manufacturing workforce.

Why Choose Missouri

Fighter Jet Manufacturing Excellence
Missouri builds the F-15EX and F/A-18, two of the most capable fighter aircraft in American service, creating world-class manufacturing careers for technicians who want to work on high-profile military platforms.
B-2 Stealth Bomber Base
Whiteman AFB is home to all operational B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, creating rare and prestigious maintenance careers supporting the most iconic aircraft in the US strategic bomber fleet.
Strong Boeing Union Wages
Boeing's St. Louis defense operations are covered by strong union agreements that deliver industry-leading wages, comprehensive benefits, and job security for Missouri's manufacturing workforce.
Competitive Wages & Growth
Defense technicians earn strong wages with clear pathways to supervisory, engineering, and leadership roles with continued advancement potential.

Ready to Launch Your Defense Career in Missouri?

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