Hampton Roads is strengthening its role as one of the nation’s most important defense manufacturing hubs, supported by Naval Station Norfolk, Newport News Shipbuilding, and a growing network of defense contractors and suppliers. Rising federal investment in shipbuilding and submarine production, combined with nearly $17 billion in regional defense contract awards in 2025, continues to fuel industrial growth and real estate demand.

The region’s outlook is further reinforced by national manufacturing trends. According to Cushman & Wakefield, manufacturers have become the leading source of industrial leasing demand across the U.S., driven by reshoring efforts, supply chain diversification, and growth in sectors including aerospace and defense, energy, technology, and advanced manufacturing. Download Cushman & Wakefield’s national manufacturing report here.

With world-class port infrastructure, a highly specialized workforce, and increasing investment in defense innovation and advanced manufacturing, Hampton Roads is well-positioned to capture a growing share of industrial expansion as domestic production priorities continue to accelerate. Click here to read the full report and download a copy below.