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. 

Thinking about expanding in or relocating to Pinellas County? Let us help
Scott Talcott
Economic Development Manager
stalcott@pinellas.gov
(727) 464-7353
Linkedin
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Industry Leaders

Image of corporate logo for Leonardo DRS.
Image of corporate logo for General Dynamics.
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Image of corporate logo for L3 Harris.
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Quick Facts

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40,000+

Direct and indirect jobs are related to Pinellas defense sector employment.

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84,100+

Veterans call Pinellas County home.

4th

Best Tax Climate in the nation is Florida.

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3rd

Largest manufacturing base in the state of Florida is in Pinellas County.

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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.

Tech Advisor Selects Pinellas County for Relocation and Expansion of U.S. Headquarters

Oncore Cloud Services has relocated its U.S. headquarters from Atlanta, Georgia, to St. Petersburg, Florida. The company chose the city for its robust financial services sector, talented workforce, and high quality of life. The relocation has already led to modest growth, with four new local hires, and Oncore plans to add ten additional positions over the next three years.

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May 2026 Business news

The latest issue of Pinellas County Business News highlights Oncore Cloud Service’s choice to relocate its U.S. HQ to Pinellas, and features a video of Pinellas CEOs touting the benefits of doing business in our Ideal Business Climate. Plus, find inside upcoming opportunities to learn new skills and expand your business through new channels.

Read more.