On January 7, 2025, Alabama was awarded the Business Facilities' 'Deal of the Year' Impact Award in the Defense Manufacturing category for the significant expansions of Austal USA. This recognition highlights the state's growing influence in the defense sector, particularly with Austal's $750 million investment, which is expected to create approximately 2,000 jobs in Mobile [ddae87b6].
The expansions include the announcement of a Submarine Module Fabrication Facility in October 2024, projected to generate 1,000 jobs by late 2026, and an Assembly Facility for Large Steel Ships, announced in July 2024, which will add another 1,000 jobs [ddae87b6]. Governor Kay Ivey praised Alabama's leadership in defense manufacturing, noting that 259 Alabama-based suppliers contributed over $115 million to Austal in 2023, underscoring the local economic impact [ddae87b6].
Additionally, it was reported that 72% of Austal's workforce resides in Mobile County, further emphasizing the company's integral role in the local economy. Former Congressman Bradley Byrne highlighted Austal's contributions to national defense and its importance in driving economic growth in the region [ddae87b6].
This award comes as Alabama continues to strengthen its economic ties with various sectors, including the recent developments in its relationship with Japanese companies, as highlighted in the Japan-America Society of Alabama's Annual Dinner and Business Forum held in November 2024. The event underscored the importance of international partnerships in enhancing Alabama's economic landscape [ec035e18].