Kratos to double Bristow facility size, add dozens of aerospace jobs

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions is investing in the future of aerospace manufacturing in Oklahoma, announcing a major expansion of its new Bristow facility that’s expected to create dozens of high-quality jobs and boost national defense capabilities.

Unveiled during the Paris Air Show, the expansion will double the size of the company's 50,000-square-foot plant, eventually housing up to five engine production lines and three testing cells.

Up to 100,000 Square Feet of Advanced Manufacturing

Kratos’ new facility sits on 20 acres in Bristow and is dedicated to building the GEK family of turbojet engines, developed in partnership with GE Aerospace. The initial focus will be on the GEK800 engine.

The company plans to scale the facility to 100,000 square feet and reach a production rate of 500 engines annually by the end of 2026. The engine lines will support propulsion systems ranging from 600 to 6000 pounds of thrust.

Jobs Coming to Creek County

The first engine line will bring 60 jobs to the region. Each additional line is expected to create another 45 positions, boosting the local economy and workforce development.

Key hires will begin in late 2025, with general hiring slated for early 2026. Engine test cells, funded through a state grant, are expected to be operational by 2027.

State Leaders Celebrate Defense Investment

Gov. Kevin Stitt praised the announcement as a strategic win for Oklahoma’s growing role in national security.

“This is a big win for American workers, for our military, and for every Oklahoman who believes in freedom, innovation, and strength,” Stitt said. “Kratos could’ve gone anywhere in the world, but they chose Oklahoma.”

Kratos CEO Eric DeMarco said the new facility is a key part of the company’s mission to supply affordable, high-performance jet engines for the U.S. Department of Defense and allied partners.

What It Means for National Security

The Bristow site will serve as a key manufacturing hub for jet-powered systems used in cruise missiles and combat drones. Officials say the expansion reflects rising demand for cost-effective propulsion technology.

“Kratos’ investment in our state is an investment in our workforce, our warfighters, and our national security,” said U.S. Sen. Markwayne Mullin.

The company’s leadership sees Oklahoma as a long-term partner in defense innovation, with the Bristow plant expected to play a central role in meeting military propulsion needs well into the future.