US politicians attended the Farnborough Airshow in England to promote the US aviation and space industry. The US pavilion at the airshow was 22% larger than in 2024, with a 21% increase in US government agencies and private company exhibitors. Nine US senators, several governors, and other local and state officials were in attendance.
US Industry Growth
The US aerospace and defense industry generated $1 trillion in total business activity in 2025, accounting for 1.6% of US economic output and supporting over 2.1 million American jobs. US officials see the higher pay offered in North America as a key draw, with US aerospace salaries about 40% above the national average.
Some states, such as Kansas and Alabama, held parties in London to woo potential investors, while dozens operated booths at the airshow to make the case for their states as ideal locations for aerospace companies. The states highlighted their low taxes and regulation, competitive energy prices, and talented workforce as key advantages.
Global Competition
The European Union is increasing defense spending by 8.6% to a record €454 million in 2026, and European countries are creating new programs to grow aerospace investments and jobs. The British government unveiled a £600 million support package for the UK aerospace industry, including £500 million for aerospace research and technology projects and a new £100 million aerospace supply chain fund.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
