Boeing Defense Headquarters Moves Back to St. Louis

The move comes weeks after a new Democratic governor took office in Virginia.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Boeing announced that it is moving its Defense, Space & Security headquarters out of Arlington, Virginia, back to St. Louis, Missouri. This decision comes just weeks after new Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger took office in Virginia, replacing Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Why it matters

The move highlights concerns from Boeing about the business climate in Virginia under the new Democratic administration. Missouri's Republican Governor Mike Kehoe touted the move as a 'win for the heartland', underscoring the political dynamics at play.

The details

Boeing cited the need to be closer to its workforce and manufacturing facilities as the key reasons for the headquarters relocation. The company is also progressing on a multi-billion-dollar investment in advanced combat aircraft production facilities, including in St. Louis. While Boeing's global headquarters will remain in Arlington, Virginia, the defense division is moving back to its former site in St. Louis.

  • Boeing announced the headquarters move on February 19, 2026.
  • Abigail Spanberger became the new Democratic Governor of Virginia in January 2026, replacing Republican Glenn Youngkin.

The players

Boeing

A major American aerospace and defense corporation.

Abigail Spanberger

The new Democratic Governor of Virginia, who took office in January 2026.

Glenn Youngkin

The previous Republican Governor of Virginia.

Mike Kehoe

The Republican Governor of Missouri.

Steve Parker

The CEO of Boeing Defense, Space & Security.

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What they’re saying

“The headquarters move, coupled with our senior leaders being based at and spending their time at major engineering, production and manufacturing centers across the U.S., reflects our continued focus on disciplined performance across our business.”

— Steve Parker, CEO, Boeing Defense, Space & Security (1010wcsi.com)

“Missouri is the best place in the nation for aerospace and defense manufacturing, and having the Boeing Defense headquarters back where it belongs is a win for our workers and a win for the heartland.”

— Mike Kehoe, Governor of Missouri (1010wcsi.com)

What’s next

Boeing plans to invest billions of dollars in advanced combat aircraft production facilities, including in St. Louis, as part of the headquarters relocation.

The takeaway

The move of Boeing's defense headquarters from Virginia to Missouri highlights the shifting political and business dynamics in the region, with the new Democratic governor in Virginia potentially playing a role in the company's decision to relocate.