According to the AIA, the United States aerospace and defense sector collectively made $995 billion in sales last year, as well as employing 2.2 million workers at an average wage for an operator of $115,000. The U.S. aerospace and defense industry also operated at approximately at 73% trade surplus.

Boeing made big news in March 2025 by winning the F-47 next generation fighter aircraft. Raytheon in October 2025 announced an expansion of its plant in Andover, MA and Lockheed Martin delivered 191 F-35 Lighting II fighter planes, beating its previous record of 142.

There are a few names new to the list at the bottom of this year's. Astronics Corporation provides components for NASA and in October acquired Bühler Motor Group in an all-cash transaction. Ducommun in December was named a BAE Supplier of the Year. AeroVironment Inc. manufactures drones and high-energy weapons among other things and also provides cybersecurity services.