Aerospace / Aviation

Tullahoma is a prime location for the region's aviation and aerospace industry. The aviation and aerospace sector in Tullahoma has developed from a collection of military installations and small airstrips to become a hub for global commercial aerodynamic testing, advanced modeling simulations, air defense projects and space exploration.

Arnold Air Force Base

Tullahoma is home to Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) which is the most advanced and largest complex of flight simulation test facilities in the world.

Tullahoma Municipal Airport

Aviation in the region is anchored by the first-rate Tullahoma Municipal Airport. One of the top airports in the state of Tennessee, Tullahoma Municipal Airport is frequently cited as a key advantage to companies doing business in the South.

Sector Strength

Defense contract powerhouse Jacobs Technology is a stronghold in the region, earning billions of dollars in government and commercial contracts for a host of projects from missile and rocket systems to jet fighters, and most recently a NASA contract. Smaller companies in the region often capture lucrative government subcontracts. Other renowned and notable companies located in Tullahoma include MicroCraft, Schmiede, and Goodrich.

With so many crossover applications, the sector benefits from a region firmly designated as the state leader for modeling, simulation and training. Organizations in the region employ simulation technology in applications such as aerodynamic testing and fluid computational testing for military and commercial companies.

The sector enjoys strong support from public and private organizations that are dedicated to advancing the industry. Additionally, community educational institutions such as the University of Tennessee Space Institute develop programs specifically geared toward enhancing the quality of the workforce available to aviation and aerospace businesses.