# Oklahoma Expands Aerospace Infrastructure

Oklahoma’s 2026 aerospace and defense study estimates the sector contributes $52.5 billion to the state economy and supports 136,000 direct jobs. Procurement-relevant activity includes an $8.3 million FAA research facility near Will Rogers World Airport, a $127 million Tinker Air Force Base hangar project, and a five-year, $520 million airport construction program. The study links further sector growth to military installations, airport infrastructure, workforce training, and autonomous and space systems; the article identifies no open solicitations or contracting contacts.

- The projects point to demand in aviation research, military maintenance facilities, and airport construction. Contractors with relevant construction, engineering, aviation, and facilities capabilities can assess their fit for future work as these projects advance.
- Oklahoma’s planned investment spans federal, state, and local funding for the airport program. Businesses pursuing this market should account for the multiple public funding sources and the range of project owners.
- The study describes growth areas in autonomous and space systems as well as workforce training, but does not identify specific procurements or proposal deadlines. The article therefore provides market context rather than a current bid opportunity.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Transportation, Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** October 06, 2026

### Government Entities
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
- United States Air Force (USAF)
- Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics
- Oklahoma Department of Commerce
- United States Space Force (USSF)

### Vendors
- Boeing ()
- Kratos Defense & Security Solutions ()
- Dawn Aerospace ()

### Key Quotes
> What we do in the next several years will set up our economy for the next 50 and beyond.
> — Kian Kamas, Executive Director of Tulsa Innovation Labs

> I've always contended that we need to align Oklahoma with the Space Force budget. I think over time it's going to prove very valuable as an economic driver for the state of Oklahoma.
> — Jim Bridenstine, former NASA Administrator

### Sources
- [Oklahoma aerospace projected to overtake oil and gas as top economic driver  | Wichita Eagle](https://www.kansas.com/news/nation-world/national/article317512544.html) - Wichita Eagle