Oklahoma Aerospace and Defense Continues to Soar

New study shows $52.5 billion in annual economic impact, reinforcing aerospace and defense as Oklahoma's second-largest industry and one of its fastest-growing economic engines.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Oklahoma's aerospace and defense industry generates $52.5 billion in annual economic activity and supports more than 250,000 jobs, according to a new study released today by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA).

The new statewide economic impact study has shown that aerospace and defense in Oklahoma has not only weathered the COVID storm, it has continued to be one of the state's fastest growing industries, demonstrating the industry's continued strength through a period that included one of the most significant downturns in commercial aviation history. Governor Kevin Stitt, members of Oklahoma's congressional delegation, state leaders, military officials, and aerospace industry representatives joined ODAA to unveil the study's findings during a news briefing at the Oklahoma History Center.

"Aerospace and defense is helping move Oklahoma toward our goal of becoming a Top 10 state," said Governor Kevin Stitt. "This $52.5 billion impact shows we have the workforce, military assets, and pro-business environment to compete for more jobs, more investment, and more opportunity for Oklahoma families."

The study demonstrates the breadth of Oklahoma's aerospace and defense sector is a cornerstone of the state's economy, supported by five military installations that comprise several of the state's largest single-site employers, a statewide network of 107 public-use airports that provide essential infrastructure for commercial air travel and aerospace businesses, and numerous aerospace companies that support both military and commercial aviation operations.

"Oklahoma's aerospace and defense industry is built on assets that very few states can match, such as world-class military installations, a robust air transportation system, an experienced workforce, nationally recognized training and research institutions, and a business environment that allows companies to grow," said Grayson Ardies, executive director, ODAA. "Combined with Oklahoma's central location, skilled workforce, and commitment to innovation, those strengths continue to position Oklahoma as a premier destination for companies seeking an excellent environment to do business."

Economic Impact by the Numbers 

The report breaks down economic impact by sector, each providing a multi-billion-dollar economic impact:

Military: $21.8 billion in annual impact from five major military installations, two Air National Guard units, and a significant statewide Army National Guard presence, supporting an annual payroll of $7.3 billion and $14.5 billion in spending, with a combined 133,296 jobs.

Airports: $13.8 billion in annual impact generated through Oklahoma's 107 public-use airports supporting an annual payroll of $4.6 billion, $9.3 billion in annual spending, and a combined 64,878 jobs.

Off-Airport Industry Reliance: $16.8 billion in impact from 790 aerospace and defense manufacturers, engineering and technology firms, logistics providers, and other aviation-dependent employers, generating $4.8 billion in payroll, $12 billion in annual spending, and 61,109 jobs.

The study also examines the significant economic role of air cargo, with approximately 50,000 tons of cargo moving through Oklahoma airports and generating an estimated $6.7 billion in economic activity while supporting 27,600 jobs. Air cargo is analyzed separately and is not additive to the $52.5 billion statewide economic impact total.

The report credits a combination of factors for the state's success, including economic competitiveness and workforce strength, driven by a pipeline of engineers, technicians, pilots and skilled tradespeople supported by higher education, career technology centers, and military training programs. 

Oklahoma has become a national leader in unmanned aircraft systems and advanced air mobility, earning a top ranking for readiness in drone commerce. The state is also home to the Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport in Burns Flat, the nation's first inland facility licensed for suborbital operations.

Together, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Burns Flat form what state leaders have described as the Oklahoma Space Triangle by connecting the state's military and aerospace infrastructure, commercial and military aviation MRO activities, research and innovation assets, and emerging commercial space capabilities to take advantage of the space industry renaissance that's taking place.

The industry's demonstrated success and ambition underscore an economic foundation that supports long-established firms and emerging innovators, giving businesses access to specialized talent, infrastructure, and operating advantages as they grow in Oklahoma.

"Companies have choices about where they invest and create jobs, and Oklahoma is proving we can compete with anyone," said Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell. "We will continue building a workforce and making Oklahoma the best place in America to start, grow and do business."

Download the report: okareaimpact.com

About the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics
The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA), which operates the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA), works to position Oklahoma as a global hub for aerospace, defense, and space industry innovation. Through strategic partnerships, infrastructure investment, workforce training, industry advancement, and statewide advocacy, the agency drives one of Oklahoma's largest and fastest-growing economic sectors, accelerating the state's role in commercial aviation, national defense, advanced air mobility, and the emerging space economy. ODAA, through the operation of the OSIDA organization, manages the Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport, one of the nation's 14 FAA-licensed spaceports, and leads the development of the emerging Oklahoma space industry.

SOURCE Oklahoma Department of Aerospace & Aeronautics