BATON ROUGE, La. – November 12, 2025– Louisiana’s defense economy continues to surge, generating more than $17 billion in total economic activity during fiscal year 2024, according to a new statewide analysis released today by Louisiana Economic Development (LED). The study highlights a 77% increase in military-related output and a 52% rise in employment since 2021, reflecting the state’s growing role in national defense and innovation.
Military-related activity now supports over 117,000 jobs and $707 million in state and local tax revenues, marking a significant expansion across shipbuilding, aerospace, technology, and advanced manufacturing sectors.
“Louisiana is competing and winning in the defense economy,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “Our shipyards, bases, and defense companies are creating jobs, driving innovation, and powering growth in every region of our state. This administration is focused on building that momentum and keeping Louisiana at the forefront of America’s defense and economic future.”
The analysis—conducted by Business Development Advisors and The Roosevelt Group for LED and the Louisiana Military Advisory Council—evaluates defense installations, contracts, and veteran and retiree spending across all eight LED regions.
Strengthening Communities and Innovation
From Bollinger Shipyards’ $3 billion in federal projects, including a new U.S. Navy contract to construct six Arctic Security Cutters in Lockport, to VRC Metal Systems’ new advanced maintenance facility at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana’s defense sector continues to attract high-value investment and create high-skilled positions statewide.
“Louisiana’s military presence is a source of strength for every region of our state,” said LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. “The men and women who serve, the contractors who support them, and the veterans who continue to contribute after service all play a vital role in our success. LED is proud to work alongside our defense community to expand opportunity and strengthen the communities that make Louisiana thrive.”
Veteran Contributions Expand Economic Reach
For the first time, the report includes data on the economic contributions of Louisiana’s 26,000 military retirees and 260,000 veterans, revealing an additional $5.6 billion in annual economic output and 35,000 jobs supported statewide.
“As someone who has served, I know the deep commitment Louisiana’s veterans and military families carry into every part of their lives,” said Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Charlton J. Meginley. “Their continued impact strengthens our economy, our communities, and our state as a whole. It’s something all Louisianans can take pride in.”
Access the Full Report
The complete Military Economic Impact Analysis is available on OpportunityLouisiana.com and provides detailed statewide and regional breakdowns of Louisiana’s military and veteran economic contributions.
About Louisiana Economic Development (LED)
Louisiana Economic Development drives capital investment, job creation, and economic opportunity for the people of Louisiana and employers of all sizes. Learn more at OpportunityLouisiana.com.
Media Contacts:
Emma Wagner
LED Communications Director
Emma.Wagner@la.gov
912.467.2117
Jacey Wesley
LED Strategic Communications Manager
Jacey.Wesley@la.gov
225.342.5536
