The state of Michigan is working to find ways to create more defense-industry jobs here in Michigan.
Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley talked about the 'protect and grow' initiative on Tuesday at Demmer Corporation in Lansing.
He said Michigan companies with defense contracts produce $9 billion worth of products and services every year and there's room for more.
"All different types of aspects of things that soldiers eat and communicate with, things that they drive, things that the shoot and fly. Those components are made here in Michigan. It's a big deal," said Calley. "And we are only taking advantage of part of the opportunity available to us."
Ingham County has the fourth most defense jobs in the state, generating between $162 million and $420 million worth of investments every year.
