The new site will begin as a 50,000-square-foot facility on 20 acres and is expected to expand to 100,000 square feet, housing up to five GEK production lines with an initial annual output of 500 engines across various thrust classes from 600 to 6000 pounds. Kratos anticipates taking occupancy by mid-2026, with full operations commencing in the final quarter of the same year.
The facility will also include three engine test cells for small engines (200–2000 lbf thrust), scheduled to become operational in 2027 with the support of grant funding approved by the State of Oklahoma. Recruitment for key positions will begin in late 2025, followed by general hiring in early 2026, with the first engine line creating 60 jobs and each additional line expected to add 45 more.
“This facility underscores Kratos’ strategy of delivering affordable, high-performance, made-in-America propulsion systems at scale,” said Stacey Rock, President of Kratos Turbine Technologies. “Bristow will be a critical site for delivering mass to the mission and meeting the growing propulsion needs of our defense customers.”
Kratos CEO Eric DeMarco stated, “This new Kratos investment reflects our continued commitment to delivering high-performance, affordable jet engine technology to support the Department of Defense and our allies. The Bristow facility will play a critical role in accelerating production of the GEK family of engines, including the GEK800, and strengthening America’s industrial base in this decisive era.”
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt welcomed the investment, saying, “Kratos could’ve gone anywhere in the world, but they chose to continue investing in Oklahoma because it is the best place to build, grow, and do business.” He added, “This is a big win for American workers, for our military, and for every Oklahoman who believes in freedom, innovation, and strength.”
U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin commented, “Oklahoma is proud to be home to Kratos and all they do to provide cutting-edge defense technologies to our warfighters.” Congressman Kevin Hern added, “Kratos’ expansion in Oklahoma is further proof that Oklahoma is a hub for innovative defense technology and high-quality manufacturing jobs.”
Congressman Frank Lucas concluded, “Kratos’ decision to grow in Oklahoma highlights Oklahoma’s strong workforce and unwavering support for our nation’s defense mission.”
