Special to The Mississippi Monitor
(Photo courtesy of Firehawk Aerospace website)
Crawford is set to become a key hub for advanced defense manufacturing as Firehawk Aerospace establishes new operations in the community, marking a $16.5 million corporate investment and the creation of 100 high-quality jobs.
The defense technology company, known for its end-to-end energetics capabilities, produces munitions, rockets and rocket motors powered by proprietary 3D-printed propellant. This innovative approach enables faster, safer and more cost-efficient production, positioning the company at the forefront of modern aerospace manufacturing.
Firehawk recently acquired a 636-acre site in Crawford that will expand its production capacity and serve as the integration location for its rocket systems. The facility is expected to play a significant role in strengthening the nation’s defense supply chain while bringing new opportunities to the Golden Triangle region.
State and local leaders partnered to support the project. The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive (MFLEX) program, and Lowndes County is also contributing to the effort.
Governor Tate Reeves said the project reflects the state’s commitment to supporting forward-looking industries and accelerating economic growth.
“Firehawk Aerospace chose Mississippi because we’re built for companies that refuse to wait,” Reeves said. “We move faster and deliver the workforce and infrastructure innovative aerospace companies demand—without red tape. Lowndes County and the Golden Triangle are proving once again that Mississippi isn’t watching the future take shape; we’re building it. The state of Mississippi is proud to support Firehawk as it brings high-paying, high-tech jobs to the people of Lowndes County.”
Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Bill Cork emphasized the state’s long history in aerospace and defense and its continued momentum in the sector.
“Mississippi continues to prove that the future of aerospace and defense is not limited to the coasts — it is being built in communities across our state,” Cork said. “Mississippi has been in the rocket business for more than 60 years, and companies like Firehawk Aerospace choose our state because they know they can innovate, grow and compete at the highest level while advancing technologies critical to our nation’s security.”
Firehawk Aerospace Founder and CEO Will Edwards said Mississippi’s business climate and skilled workforce made it the clear choice for the company’s expansion.
“Mississippi stood out to us because of its pro-industry leadership, deep talent pool and commitment to advanced manufacturing,” Edwards said. “As Firehawk works to modernize and scale rocket production for U.S. defense, we look for partners who move with urgency and clarity, and we found that here. This facility will play a critical role in strengthening national security while creating high-impact technical jobs in the region.”
Local economic development leaders say the project underscores the Golden Triangle’s ability to attract cutting-edge industries.
“Firehawk Aerospace is exactly the type of forward-thinking company we work to attract to the Golden Triangle,” said Meryl Fisackerly, chief operating officer of GTR LINK. “This project highlights how our region brings together innovation, talent and speed-to-market in a way that supports mission-critical industries like aerospace and defense. We’re excited to see Firehawk grow here and contribute to the next chapter of economic momentum in Lowndes County.”
Firehawk Aerospace expects to begin operations in the near future and is actively recruiting for a variety of positions to support its manufacturing activities.
More information about the company and available opportunities can be found at firehawkaerospace.com.