Defense & Homeland Security
Pinellas County has been at the forefront for decades in defense and homeland security to help usher in the next wave of mission-critical technology by offering the tools, resources, and the environment to provide businesses the leading edge in all major military and government markets.
Securing the future.
Pinellas County is a strategic center for defense and homeland security, hosting four military installations—including the nation’s busiest Coast Guard Air Station in Clearwater—and located just across the bay from MacDill Air Force Base, home to USCENTCOM and USSOCOM. This proximity, combined with a robust talent pipeline and advanced manufacturing capabilities, makes Pinellas a magnet for top-tier defense contractors.
With the third-largest veteran population in Florida and access to leading universities and training programs, Pinellas offers a workforce ready to meet the demands of high-tech, mission-critical projects. From aerospace and cyber defense to advanced radar and satellite systems, local companies are shaping the future of national security.
CONTACT US.
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Industry Leaders
Quick Facts
40,000+
Direct and indirect jobs are related to Pinellas defense sector employment.
84,100+
Veterans call Pinellas County home.
4th
Best Tax Climate in the nation is Florida.
3rd
Largest manufacturing base in the state of Florida is in Pinellas County.
Connect with us.
For more information about Pinellas’ Defense & Homeland Security industry, contact:
Scott Talcott, Economic Development Manager.
News & Success Stories
Stay updated on the latest business news in Pinellas County.
Review the Latest News
about Business in Pinellas
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April 2026 Business news
Out now: the April 2026 issue of Pinellas County Business News, sharing results from the 15th Annual Reverse trade Show, upcoming events for medical device manufacturers and defense industry companies, and an invitation to participate in a hurricane recovery exercise.
Pinellas County Reverse Trade Show: Connecting Businesses to Buyers for 15 Years
In its 15th year, the 2026 Pinellas County Reverse Trade Show connected more than 120 business attendees to buyers from 24 government agencies and prime contractors, exceeding expectations and capitalizing on the Tampa Bay region’s growth in government contracting opportunities for small businesses.
