Electronics and Aerospace in the High Desert
Victorville and the surrounding High Desert have a rich history in aviation and advanced technology. The former George Air Force Base, now the Southern California Logistics Airport, hosts aircraft maintenance, storage, and flight testing operations. Nearby Adelanto and El Mirage are home to unmanned aircraft development and testing, while Palmdale and Edwards Air Force Base, just to the west, are among the most important aerospace centers in the world.
Electronics are at the heart of this ecosystem. Avionics, sensors, communications systems, radar, flight controls, and power electronics are essential to modern aircraft and defense systems. The region's clear skies, restricted airspace, and open land make it ideal for testing and producing these technologies. Here are ten of the best electronics and aerospace technology manufacturers connected to Victorville and the High Desert.
Top 10 Electronics and Technology Manufacturers
1. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems is a world leader in unmanned aircraft systems, including the Predator and Reaper families. It operates flight test and training facilities in the High Desert near Adelanto and El Mirage. Its aircraft rely on advanced electronics, sensors, and communication systems, making it one of the region's most significant technology employers.
2. Northrop Grumman
Northrop Grumman is a global aerospace and defense company with major operations in Palmdale, including production of the B-21 Raider. Its advanced electronics, mission systems, and sensors make it a cornerstone of the Antelope and Victor Valley aerospace economy.
3. Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin operates its famed Skunk Works advanced development division in Palmdale. The company designs and builds cutting-edge aircraft and electronic systems, contributing to the High Desert's reputation as an innovation hub.
4. GE Aerospace
GE Aerospace has conducted engine flight testing at the Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville. Its engines integrate sophisticated electronic controls and monitoring systems, and its local operations highlight the airport's role in aerospace testing.
5. Boeing
Boeing has a long history in Southern California aerospace and has used the Southern California Logistics Airport for aircraft operations and storage. Its commercial and defense aircraft depend on advanced avionics and electronic systems.
6. RTX
RTX, formerly Raytheon Technologies, produces radar, sensors, missile systems, and avionics through its Raytheon and Collins Aerospace businesses. Its Southern California operations support defense and commercial aerospace programs across the region.
7. Honeywell Aerospace
Honeywell Aerospace manufactures avionics, navigation systems, and engines for commercial and defense aircraft. Its technologies are found in many aircraft operating and tested in the High Desert.
8. TTM Technologies
TTM Technologies is one of the largest printed circuit board manufacturers in North America, headquartered in Southern California. It supplies aerospace, defense, and commercial electronics customers with advanced circuit boards and assemblies.
9. Teledyne Technologies
Teledyne produces digital imaging, instrumentation, aerospace electronics, and engineered systems. Its Southern California operations support defense, space, and industrial markets with sophisticated sensors and electronics.
10. Kyocera International
Kyocera International manufactures electronic components and advanced ceramics in Southern California. Its components are used in aerospace, medical, automotive, and communication applications.
Why the High Desert Attracts Electronics Manufacturing
The High Desert offers advantages that few regions can match. Restricted military airspace and clear weather support flight testing. Large parcels of affordable land allow for expansive facilities. The Southern California Logistics Airport provides a long runway, hangar space, and room for industrial development. Proximity to Los Angeles and Orange County gives companies access to engineering talent and suppliers.
Victorville's growing workforce and lower cost of living also help companies attract technicians, machinists, and engineers who want a more affordable lifestyle while working in advanced industries.
Career Opportunities
Electronics and aerospace manufacturing offers rewarding careers for High Desert residents. Common roles include electronics technicians, avionics specialists, aircraft mechanics, quality inspectors, engineers, and production workers. Victor Valley College and other regional institutions offer programs in aviation maintenance, electronics, and manufacturing technology that prepare students for these careers. Security clearances can open additional opportunities with defense contractors.
Industry Trends
Unmanned aircraft systems are a major growth area, with applications in defense, border security, firefighting, and commercial inspection. Advanced sensors and artificial intelligence are transforming aircraft capabilities. Electrification of aviation is driving development of new power electronics and battery systems. Supply chain resilience has encouraged companies to expand domestic manufacturing of circuit boards and electronic components.
The High Desert is well positioned to benefit from these trends. Continued investment in the Southern California Logistics Airport and nearby aerospace facilities could bring new manufacturing and testing operations to the region.
Supporting Local Suppliers
Large aerospace and electronics companies rely on networks of smaller suppliers for machining, assembly, testing, and logistics. Victorville businesses that develop quality certifications, such as AS9100, can position themselves to serve these supply chains. Economic development organizations and the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center help local companies pursue defense and aerospace contracting opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Victorville sits within one of the most important aerospace and electronics regions in the world. Companies like General Atomics, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and GE Aerospace drive innovation in the High Desert, while electronics specialists such as TTM Technologies, Teledyne, and Kyocera supply critical components. For residents, businesses, and investors, this thriving ecosystem offers exciting opportunities for growth, careers, and technological leadership.