US defense contractor to build 4,000-worker advanced manufacturing facility in central Ohio

U.S. defense contractor Anduril Industries is preparing to build a massive advanced manufacturing facility in central Ohio. State and company officials announced the deal Thursday that would add a planned 4,000 jobs to the area’s burgeoning high-tech sector. The Cosa Mesa, California-based defense technology company will begin construction of its “Arsenal 1” as soon as state and local approvals are secured. The facility will be located on a site near Rickenbacker International Airport in Pickaway County, about 16 miles southeast of Columbus. Production of military drones and autonomous air vehicles is envisioned to begin in July 2026.