Home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Houston has powered missions that have defined modern space exploration, while its extensive engineering ecosystem attracts defense contractors seeking advanced technical expertise.
In recent years, targeted initiatives have accelerated the region’s defense capabilities. The Texas Defense Aerospace Manufacturing Community (TDAMC), backed by the U.S. Department of Defense, fosters partnership with private firms and academic research. Rice University’s office of Defense Research Advancement, or DRA, aims to be a core hub of innovation in south Texas to enhance advanced manufacturing and workforce training. The Houston Spaceport, an FAA‑licensed facility, has also expanded its footprint, drawing aerospace and defense companies to its state‑of‑the‑art campuses and adjacent research parks.
This convergence of government support, academic partnerships and private-sector investment underscores Houston’s vital contribution to national security and aerospace leadership. Below, we highlight top defense companies, each advancing critical technologies in the sector.
Defense Companies in Houston
- KBR
- The Aerospace Corporation
- ARES Corporation
- Intuitive Machines
- Barrios Technology
- Ravn Aerospace
- Aegis Aerospace
- All Points Logistics
- Venus Aerospace
- AEXA Aerospace
Top Defense Companies in Houston
KBR delivers engineering, logistics and mission support across defense and government sectors. It specializes in mission-systems integration, cyber solutions and technical operations, leveraging its global footprint to support complex programs.
ARES Corporation offers engineering, risk management and mission assurance services for aerospace and defense clients. It focuses on range support, system integration and software development to enhance operational readiness.
Aegis Aerospace provides technology solutions and services focused on space operations and defense programs. It specializes in commercial spaceflight services, engineering support and space-based systems. Based in Houston, the company collaborates on projects such as payload deployment and mission planning for government and commercial clients.
All Points Logistics offers engineering, software development, IT solutions and cyber operations primarily for defense and aerospace sectors. The company is a service-disabled veteran-owned business providing technical services and support for NASA and Department of Defense projects. Its Houston operations facilitate regional aerospace and defense partnerships.
Barrios Technology delivers engineering, software solutions and mission planning services to NASA and other government agencies. The company supports space mission operations, data management and technical documentation. Its Houston-based operations collaborate with NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Venus Aerospace is focused on developing advanced high-speed aircraft powered by rotating detonation rocket engines. The company’s engineering innovations target rapid transit capabilities for commercial and defense applications. Its Houston facilities are central to research, testing and prototyping for high-speed aviation technologies.
Ravn Aerospace specializes in adversary air support, intelligence training and advanced tactical systems for the Department of Defense. The company provides realistic training scenarios and operational support using proprietary aerial platforms. Its operations at the Houston Spaceport support defense training and technological development.
The Aerospace Corporation operates as a federally funded research and development center, offering technical guidance to national security and space exploration missions. The organization provides system engineering, cybersecurity assessments and technology integration. It maintains a presence in Houston to support collaborations with local space and defense initiatives.
AEXA Aerospace develops augmented and virtual reality solutions for astronaut training and mission operations. The company’s technologies aim to enhance remote collaboration, training simulations and operational support for space missions. Its Houston office supports NASA missions and private space initiatives.
Intuitive Machines develops autonomous spacecraft, lunar landing systems and exploration technologies. A key contributor to NASA’s Artemis missions, the company also provides software and control systems crucial to space operations. Its Houston location plays a central role in lunar exploration projects and commercial space activities.
