The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) released a joint report with Kearney that highlights how American aerospace and defense (A&D) companies are leveraging manufacturing to strengthen their supply chains.

The study, Strategic Localization: Balancing Risk, Value, and Technology Sovereignty in Aerospace and Defense Supply Chains, reveals that nearly 60 percent of aerospace and defense companies are exploring ways to bring production back to the United States, with 15 percent already taking action to expand domestic manufacturing.

The report details a path to expand U.S. manufacturing leadership and enhance the resiliency of the A&D supply chain. It also offers recommendations federal policies needed to achieve these goals. 

“The backbone of American aerospace and defense is our supply chain. When disruptions strike, the impact is immediate,” said Eric Fanning, AIA president and CEO. “AIA’s new report with Kearney makes clear that expanding domestic manufacturing is essential to reducing risk, accelerating innovation, and ensuring we can respond rapidly in times of crisis. By investing in resilient, high-tech production at home, we not only protect our national security but also maintain America’s leadership in the global aerospace marketplace.”

Access the full report and recommendations on AIA’s website.