Boeing Moves Defense, Space & Security Headquarters to St. Louis, MO

February 24, 2026 - Boeing has named its St. Louis site the headquarters of its Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) business, further solidifying Missouri’s role as a national leader in defense innovation.

For decades, St. Louis has played a critical role in designing and producing some of the most advanced military aircraft in the world. Now, with Boeing formally establishing its Defense, Space & Security headquarters in the region, Missouri takes on an even greater leadership role in shaping the future of national security.

“Boeing is progressing on a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar investment in the world’s most advanced combat aircraft production facilities, including in St. Louis. The site has a rich history designing and manufacturing some of the world’s most innovative spacecraft and most advanced and innovative tactical aircraft. By aligning leadership with the workforce and investing in state-of-the-art facilities, Boeing is poised to strengthen its core business and drive innovation in defense solutions for the U.S. military and global allies.” (Boeing)

Missouri’s aerospace sector already stands among the strongest in the nation, with more than 80 aerospace manufacturing establishments statewide and a deep bench of experienced engineers and technicians. The state has built a reputation for delivering complex, mission-critical platforms, and this latest move further cements St. Louis as a premier defense hub in the United States. 

The headquarters announcement follows several major milestones for Boeing in Missouri. In January, Boeing delivered the first operational T-7A Red Hawk jet trainer built in St. Louis to the United States Air Force. In 2025, the Department of Defense awarded Boeing the prestigious contract to develop the next-generation F-47 fighter jet, reportedly worth at least $20 billion.  

By anchoring its defense headquarters in St. Louis, Boeing is aligning its strategic leadership with one of the most capable aerospace regions in the country, a move that signals its long-term confidence in the region’s engineering talent, skilled workforce, and robust aerospace ecosystem.

Learn more about Missouri’s aerospace industry.

Source: Boeing Moves Defense, Space & Security Headquarters to St. Louis - Missouri Partnership