Trenton, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy has announced the creation of the Office of Strategic Defense Investment, a new initiative aimed at bolstering New Jersey’s role in the nation’s defense sector while safeguarding jobs and fueling long-term economic growth.
The office, housed within the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), will serve as the state’s central hub for all defense-related priorities. Its mission includes attracting new military investments, ensuring the competitiveness of New Jersey’s defense infrastructure, and supporting the state’s growing network of defense contractors.
“New Jersey’s defense sector is a cornerstone of our state’s economy and our nation’s security,” Murphy said in a statement. “The creation of the Office of Strategic Defense Investment demonstrates our commitment to ensuring New Jersey remains a leader in this vital industry.”
New Jersey is home to several major military installations, including Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL), Picatinny Arsenal, Naval Weapons Station Earle, and the 177th Fighter Wing. Combined with thousands of defense contractors, the state’s defense ecosystem supports more than 70,000 jobs and billions of dollars in federal investment.
According to NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan, the office will help maintain the state’s competitiveness, drive innovation, and ensure continued economic benefits tied to the defense industry. Emma Corrado, NJEDA’s Chief of Staff and External Affairs Officer, will oversee the office.
In Fiscal Year 2023, the U.S. Department of Defense allocated about $9.4 billion to New Jersey, equal to 1.3 percent of the state’s gross domestic product. That included $2 billion in salaries for active duty and civilian personnel and more than $7 billion in defense contracts awarded across the state.
New Jersey currently has more than 7,000 defense contractors, with $1.4 billion of federal funds supporting manufacturing and research across 1,700 companies. Officials said the new office will coordinate closely with the Governor’s Office, the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and coalitions supporting the state’s installations, including the Defense Enhancement Coalition and the Picatinny Enhancement Coalition.
Key Points
- Governor Phil Murphy announced the creation of the Office of Strategic Defense Investment under NJEDA.
- The office will coordinate military priorities, attract defense investment, and support contractors.
- New Jersey’s defense industry employs more than 70,000 people and generated $9.4 billion in federal funding last year.
Murphy says the move ensures the Garden State remains a force in both national security and economic growth.