SEATTLE — Des Moines is set to see major economic growth with a new aerospace manufacturing facility from Shield AI.
City officials announced that Shield AI has chosen Des Moines as the location for its new research, development, and manufacturing site focused on X-BAT, an AI-piloted fighter jet that takes off and lands vertically.
The announcement not only gives Boeing, the homegrown aerospace company, some competition; it comes a day after Governor Ferguson announced he was creating a Governor’s Space Council.
The group will advise the Governor on maintaining our competitive edge in the space economy, the governor’s office said.
“Washington has always been a place where big ideas take flight,” said Governor Bob Ferguson. “Our state brings together a world-leading aerospace industry, cutting-edge technology and one of the most talented workforces anywhere in the world. Shield AI’s decision to build its new X-BAT manufacturing facility here is another sign that the future of aerospace is being built in Washington. We welcome Shield AI and the thousands of good-paying jobs this investment will bring.”
26-04 – WA Space Council (tmp)PDF preview
The facility will be built at the Des Moines Creek 2 Industrial Park on South 216 Street and marks Shield AI’s first site in the Puget Sound region.
Shield AI’s expansion is projected to bring hundreds of high-paying jobs and more than $300 million in direct investment to the community, according to the city’s announcement.
Officials also expect the facility to provide new economic opportunities in Des Moines as hiring for the program begins in the area.
X-BAT is planned to begin production in 2029 and reach full rate in the early 2030s, the company said.
An economic analysis of the program estimated what the region gains if it runs as planned, and the employment projections reflect the program at rate, Shield AI said.
The Shield AI project is expected to create thousands of jobs in Washington and add roughly $73 billion to the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue regional economy by 2046, based on an economic analysis.
The counts include people working for Shield AI, at suppliers, and jobs supported by local spending.
Mayor Yoshiko Grace Matsui said the community is ready to support the venture. “Des Moines has long been home to families contributing to aerospace technology and operations. We are uniquely positioned to support a talented workforce in a new, burgeoning aerospace sector. Building a thriving business environment benefits all who live, work, and visit Des Moines,” Matsui said.
Shield AI will carry out production in Washington, while flight testing and sustainment for the X-BAT will take place at its Kansas facility.
Every aircraft will complete testing in Newton, Kansas, before being delivered to customers.