Oklahoma’s Role in the U.S. Space Force Grows as Aerospace Industry Thrives

OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma is increasingly playing a significant role in the U.S. Space Force through its thriving aerospace industry, established military infrastructure, and academic advancements.

With Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City and Vance Air Force Base in Enid, the state has long been an essential hub for aviation. Tinker serves as the Air Force’s largest maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility and is now involved in projects supporting Space Force operations, such as satellite communications and cybersecurity defense systems.

Oklahoma is also home to an aerospace industry that generates more than $44 billion annually and employs over 200,000 workers, according to data from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. The state has been fostering growth in aerospace manufacturing and research to support national defense and space-related initiatives. 

Oklahoma State University (OSU) and the University of Oklahoma (OU) are working to advance space-related research and education. OSU’s Unmanned Systems Research Institute has partnered with federal contractors to explore new technologies in satellite and autonomous flight systems. OU, meanwhile, has focused on satellite meteorology and climate research, which are critical for space and defense operations.

Both universities offer aerospace engineering programs, preparing a skilled workforce to meet the growing demand for expertise in these fields.

Several aerospace companies based in Oklahoma, including Tulsa’s Spirit AeroSystems and Frontier Electronic Systems, are contributing to space-related projects. Frontier specializes in avionics and electronic systems used in satellites and space vehicles, while Spirit AeroSystems has been exploring partnerships to expand its capabilities in space vehicle manufacturing.

Oklahoma’s central location and well-developed transportation infrastructure have made it an attractive choice for military and aerospace operations. The state’s Aerospace Commerce Economic Services (ACES) program provides incentives to attract companies working in satellite technology, advanced manufacturing, and space systems.

While the Space Force has yet to establish a permanent presence in Oklahoma, experts suggest the state’s strategic advantages make it a strong contender for future missions or training facilities.

Oklahoma plays a significant role in the United States' aerospace and defense sectors, including contributions that align with the objectives of the U.S. Space Force. The aerospace industry is Oklahoma's second-largest and fastest-growing sector, generating $44 billion annually and supporting over 206,000 jobs statewide. The state is home to more than 1,100 aerospace companies, with a high concentration of skilled aviation workers and advanced maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities. Oklahoma is also recognized as one of seven global centers for aircraft MRO services.

The Oklahoma Aerospace and Defense Innovation ecosystem includes partnerships with public and private sectors, aiming to address workforce needs and expand aerospace-related education. Additionally, the state’s infrastructure includes resources such as the Air & Space Port Industrial Complex, enhancing its strategic importance for both national defense and commercial space initiatives.

Efforts like these support not only the state's economic growth but also contribute to national defense capabilities, making Oklahoma a pivotal player in advancing aerospace technologies critical to the Space Force's mission.