Governor Newsom Celebrates Lockheed Martin’s X-59 as California’s Coolest Creation

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Governor Gavin Newsom today recognized Lockheed Martin Skunk Works’ X-59 as the “Coolest Thing Made in California.” This award highlights California’s creativity and manufacturing excellence during the annual contest. The X-59 aircraft is designed to minimize sonic booms, which have hindered supersonic travel, marking a significant advancement in aviation technology.

Governor Newsom stated, “Manufacturing continues to be foundational to California’s economic growth – creating good-paying jobs and shaping the industries of the future.” His comments reflect the vital role of innovative manufacturing in the state’s economy.

Developed at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, the X-59 aims to collect data on low-noise sonic “thumps” through community testing. This initiative, in collaboration with NASA, could pave the way for quiet commercial supersonic flights over land.

The competition saw over 200,000 votes cast in four rounds during Manufacturing Month in October. Other finalists included Siemens’ Amtrak Airo Trainset made in Sacramento, Phillips 66’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel from Rodeo, and Saildrone’s Voyager from Alameda.

California is home to a thriving aerospace and defense industry, employing more aerospace engineers and defense personnel than any other state. The state boasts over 45,000 manufacturing establishments and employs 1.24 million workers. In 2024, California exported $155.2 billion in manufactured goods, reinforcing its position as a global leader in innovation.

The recognition of the X-59 exemplifies California’s role in shaping the future of manufacturing and technology.