Texas and Florida -- The Defense Innovation and Dual Use Combo
American Leadership
If Texas and Florida got married, they would rank #6 in the world GDP rankings. Almost twice the size of Russia’s GDP and just below India’s GDP. Think about that. Just 2 of the 50 states account for ~$4.18 trillion in GDP. With some of the highest growth rates in the nation and some of the largest domestic migrations, both are competing with some of the most populous nations in the world. Each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The sheer size of land mass of TX and the strategic location of FL. From space centers to tech innovation centers. From energy ports to cruise ports. From defense ecosystems to international corridors. From global military commands to national parks. Both states have enormous impact to the nation and people it serves.
The Defense and Dual Use Innovation Combo
Texas and Florida are both significant players in the defense industry, with a strong presence of military bases, defense contractors, and research institutions. Texas's defense industry is more focused on government supported land-based military operations, while Florida's defense industry is more focused on naval and air operations and has seen significant private sector investment.
Imagine if strengths converged.
Florida has a stronger focus on cybersecurity — data and money flows
Texas has a stronger focus on artificial intelligence — research and compute
Florida has a more diverse range of dual-use technologies — access and location
Texas has a stronger presence of defense contractors — land mass and location
Combined economic impact for Texas and Florida in Aerospace and Defense is approaching ~$200B annually. Florida alone has three global command headquarters which provide unique defensive and offensive operations across partner nations
The Space Combo
Florida and Texas are both major players in the space industry, with a rich history of space exploration and development. Both states have a strong presence of NASA facilities. Florida is home to NASA's Kennedy Space Center, while Texas is home to NASA's Johnson Space Center. Both states have a strong aerospace industry. Both Florida and Texas have a large number of aerospace companies, including major players like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and SpaceX. Both states have a strong research and development culture. Both Florida and Texas have a strong research and development culture, with numerous universities and research institutions that contribute to space-related research and development.
Florida's space industry is primarily focused on launch and landing technologies, while Texas's space industry is more focused on space exploration and development. Florida has seen significant private sector investment in the space industry, particularly from companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin. Texas has also seen private sector investment, but to a lesser extent than Florida. Texas has invested heavily in infrastructure to support the space industry, including the construction of new launch facilities and control centers.
Texas's industry is larger and has received more government support. Florida's industry is more focused on launch and landing technologies and has seen significant private sector investment.
The X Factor — The People
Florida boasts one of the most culturally connected state in the nation with economic trade, innovation and access across Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe. It’s strategic location has positioned it as the future of American cities for strategic alliances
Texas built its global network off the back of oil, gas and natural resources. Feeding the world advanced energy technology, raw materials and cowboy grit. The resources have led to the global connectivity.
Both Texas and Florida share the drive and resolve. Motivated individuals, organizations and policy makers are getting things done and weeding out the doubters.
The opportunities are galactic.
TJ
Good to see you’re back!