The Aerospace and Defense Work in Our Backyard Shapes America’s Future

The Aerospace and Defense Work in Our Backyard Shapes America’s Future

<span>The Aerospace and Defense Work in Our Backyard Shapes America’s Future</span> <div class="evo-article__body"><p><em>Originally published in </em><a href="https://www.ridgecrestca.com/opinion/op-ed-the-aerospace-and-defense-work-in-our-backyard-shapes-america-s-future/article_115cfda9-e517-4995-ac68-c56af19e83c9.html" data-entity-type="external"><em>The Daily Independent</em></a></p><p>When we talk about American strength and leadership—our military might, technological edge, and readiness to meet 21st-century threats—we should look beyond abstract ideas and budget numbers. We should focus on the places where those future capabilities are developed.&nbsp;</p></div> <span><span>Emma.Grimes@ma…</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-02-06T12:32:27-05:00" title="Friday, February 6, 2026 - 12:32">Fri, 02/06/2026 - 12:32</time> </span> <div class="col-auto">February 9, 2026 </div>