MONTGOMERY — It’s a hot commodity for defense contractors and for the nation’s allies, but a Huntsville-made missile is the “Coolest Thing Made in Alabama.”
The Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Seeker, manufactured by Boeing in Huntsville, has been crowned the 2025 “Coolest Thing Made in Alabama” following the conclusion of the statewide Manufacturing Madness competition.
Alabama Secretary of Commerce Ellen McNair presented the award at a special ceremony today hosted by Manufacture Alabama.
“We’re incredibly proud to manufacture the PAC-3 Seeker — an essential component of the world’s premier air defense system — right here in Alabama,” said Jim Bryan, director of Boeing Integrated Air & Missile Defense. “It’s an honor to be recognized, and we’re grateful to our talented teammates in Huntsville who consistently deliver this lifesaving capability for the service members and the civilians around the world who rely on it.”
Boeing’s PAC-3 Seeker component allows the Patriot air defense system’s interceptors to identify, track and defeat threats, including hostile aircraft and ballistic and cruise missiles.
Boeing has been in Alabama for more than 60 years and is one of the largest aerospace companies in the state, employing more than 3,220 people.
The Montgomery event drew manufacturers, elected officials, and community partners from across the state to celebrate the innovation and craftsmanship behind some of the most impressive products made in Alabama.
“This competition not only celebrates the incredible products made right here in Alabama, it’s a testament to the people, companies and communities driving innovation across our state,” said Jon Barganier, President and CEO of Manufacture Alabama. “Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists and our 2025 winner.”
The competition had more than 130,000 votes cast, with 44 entries representing over 10 industry sectors, including aerospace, food and beverage, chemical, pulp and paper, and iron and steel.
The four finalists — Evonik, A.C. Legg, Boeing, and Essity — showcased Alabama’s depth of manufacturing excellence, each with a product that represents the state’s ingenuity and global reach.
The Coolest Thing Made in Alabama campaign highlights the vital role of manufacturing in Alabama’s economy and seeks to elevate public awareness of the diverse, high-quality products made in communities across the state.
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