The Florida League of Defense Contractors (FLDC) will host Florida Defense Contractor Day in Tallahassee to highlight the significant economic impact and high-tech, high-wage jobs generated across the state by defense contractors. Military presence and defense activities has a $60 billion impact on Florida’s economy, and is projected to be about $67 billion by 2013. Florida defense contractors were awarded $14 billion last year.
Lockheed Martin will have an F-35 cockpit demonstrator at the Capitol Courtyard as a part of Florida Defense Contractor Day. The demonstrator is an interactive simulator, which highlights the F-35’s advanced technologies and combat capabilities. Florida news reporters are invited to “fly” the demonstrator and see how advanced stealth, fighter agility and integrated information make the F-35 the most capable multirole fighter in the world.
FLDC will also sponsor a press conference headlined by Lieutenant Governor Jennifer Carroll who will talk about the significant role the military and defense industry plays in promoting economic growth across the state. Lockheed Martin officials will also highlight the F-35’s role in protecting national security and the program’s economic impact across the U.S. and within Florida. Lieutenant Governor Carroll, Florida League of Defense Contractors and Lockheed Martin officials will be available for one-on-one interviews.
