Alabama is proving every day that we can compete with anyone in the world. For generations, Alabamians have helped lead America’s advances in aviation, aerospace, and national defense, always looking ahead and building for the future. From small businesses in our communities to major manufacturing facilities across the state, Alabama is producing the systems and technologies that help keep our nation safe. To sustain that momentum, Congress should support President Trump’s FY2027 defense budget.
This budget is about more than military spending—it is about supporting jobs, strengthening industry, and investing in the future of states like Alabama. It provides a pay increase for the men and women serving in our armed forces, replenishes critical munitions inventories, and prioritizes the modernization of our military. Just as importantly, it helps sustain the industrial base that powers our national defense and supports thousands of Alabama workers.
As a state representative, I have had the privilege of watching Alabama emerge as one of the nation’s leading centers for defense and aerospace innovation. The work taking place at Redstone Arsenal and across North Alabama is second to none. At the same time, communities across the state, including Tuscaloosa and the surrounding region that I represent, are well-positioned to benefit from continued growth in this sector. From advanced missile systems to the rockets that support NASA missions, Alabama is helping define what American strength and innovation look like in the 21st century.
That leadership is reflected in our economy. Northrop Grumman, for example, supports more than 14,000 jobs across Alabama, including over 3,400 direct employees and thousands more through suppliers and local businesses. The company’s operations generate more than $4.22 billion in economic output and contribute over $453 million in tax revenue that helps support schools, infrastructure, and essential community services throughout our state.
But those figures tell only part of the story.
Across Alabama, 146 suppliers help make this work possible. These small businesses, skilled manufacturers, and specialized contractors depend on a strong and reliable defense industrial base. When defense investment remains steady, they expand, hire workers, and strengthen local economies. When funding becomes uncertain, those effects are felt quickly by families and communities across the state.
The case for a strong defense budget extends beyond its economic benefits. America faces an increasingly complex and dangerous global environment. Our adversaries continue to modernize their militaries, expand their capabilities, and pursue aggressive strategies that threaten stability around the world. China, Russia, and others are investing heavily in defense and looking for opportunities to challenge American leadership. At a moment like this, reducing our commitment to military readiness would be a mistake.
President Trump’s FY2027 defense budget recognizes these realities. It ensures that our service members are properly compensated and equipped, invests in the technologies needed to address emerging threats, and supports the industrial capacity that states like Alabama have spent decades building. For Alabama, and for communities like those in House District 63, this budget represents an opportunity to continue growing high-quality jobs while strengthening our contribution to national security.
We have already seen what strong leadership and strategic investment can accomplish. Jobs are growing, industries are expanding, and Alabama continues to establish itself as a leader in sectors that are critical to both our economy and our national defense. That progress did not happen by accident, and it should not be taken for granted.
I am hopeful that Congress will support a defense budget that strengthens our military, supports American workers, and keeps Alabama at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement.
For me, the choice is clear. Supporting President Trump’s FY2027 defense budget means supporting Alabama workers, Alabama industries, and America’s strength and security for generations to come.
Norman Crow serves in the Alabama State Legislature, representing District 63.