by George Jared (gjared@talkbusiness.net)

The Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance held its first-ever meeting in Northeast Arkansas on Wednesday (June 26). Members gathered at the Arkansas Aeroplex and Arkansas Northeastern College. County leaders gave aerospace and economic updates.

The Arkansas Aeroplex is home to 40 commercial businesses, including Aviation Repair Technologies (ART), a member of the Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance. The Aeroplex, formerly Eaker Air Force Base, features an 11,600-foot-long, 300-foot-wide runway and is the designated site of the National Cold War Center, scheduled to open in 2027.

“We are laser-focused on growing the aerospace and defense industry in Arkansas and promoting the members we have across the state, including those located in Mississippi County, Aviation Repair Technologies (ART) and the Arkansas Aeroplex,” Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance executive director Chad Causey said. “We are appreciative of the invitation to come to the Aeroplex and explore the growth potential that exists here for the industry and our state.”

Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance holds first ever meeting in NEA