Innovate, Educate, and Protect
The Research Triangle Region is no stranger to excellence in innovation, education, and military operations. The rare trifecta of elite higher education institutions, defense-centric startups, and the country's fourth-largest military footprint lead the way for the Triangle region to be command central for the defense industry.
Defense Technology at a Glance
Our Defense Technology Ecosystem
The defense industry is fueled by other sectors in the region, such as AI, cybersecurity, biotechnology, big data, materials, chip processing, aerospace, and quantum computing. Innovation from each industry is mission-critical to making North Carolina the frontline of the future.
Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina: Innovation is elemental here. Especially when it comes to the defense industry, where AI, cybersecurity, biotech, microelectronics, and quantum computing all work together as one. See why North Carolina is the frontline of the future.
Company Highlight
Blue Force Technologies, Inc. (Andruil)
Blue Force Technologies, Inc. (acquired by Andruil in 2023) is an industry leader in designing and manufacturing airframes and components for small aircraft up through spacecraft. The U.S. Air Force awarded this defense startup $50 million to design, build, and test four of the company’s “Fury” aircraft. The unmanned aircraft will be deployed throughout the United States to train fighter pilots by providing a threat-representative system that can emulate high-end fighters. Along with this contract, Blue Force was awarded a Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) for up to $15 million. The facility in Wake Forest provides space and infrastructure to support the production of the aircraft.
Resources
The Frontline of the Future, Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina
A top-notch tech innovation ecosystem. Deep Department of Defense, academic, and industry partnerships. An expansive commitment to national defense. Your company can find success in North Carolina.
Advancing Defense Innovation, North Carolina Board of Science, Technology & Innovation
As a State-authorized advisory board administered by the Office of Science, Technology & Innovation at the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the North Carolina Board of Science, Technology & Innovation encourages, promotes, and supports scientific, engineering, and industrial research applications in North Carolina.
DEFTECH, North Carolina Defense Technology Transition Office
DEFTECH serves as the North Carolina hub to facilitate communications and collaborations between the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security and the region's innovation ecosystem.
Defense Technology News
NC DEFTECH connects businesses with DoD to advance research and development
