North Carolina lacks an established prime military industry, such as Virginia’s shipyards or Texas’ F-35 manufacturing base, despite the presence of large bases like Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune. However, drone manufacturer Delta Black sees the state’s growth in unmanned systems and defense manufacturing as an opportunity for expansion, prompting an office in downtown Southern Pines that opened in early May.
The company has about 25 to 30 employees and direct contractors around the country, but Chief Executive Officer Ryan Morfin identified Southern Pines as the next logical expansion for the company to “develop, test and deploy next-generation UAS technologies for tomorrow’s battles.”
“North Carolina is a vital hub of the U.S. defense industrial base, home to countless dedicated patriots who continue serving their country long after hanging up their uniforms,” Morfin said in a release. “Delta Black aims to grow our presence here, forging strong roots in this remarkable community that’s always stepped up for the nation’s needs.”…