Oklahoma Hosts Japanese Aerospace Delegation to Boost Innovation and Investment

Strengthening Global Ties: Oklahoma Hosts Japanese Aerospace Delegation

On November 24, 2025, the Oklahoma Department of Commerce announced the successful conclusion of a strategic trade mission in partnership with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). Held on November 19 and 20, 2025, this initiative brought a delegation of seven prominent Japanese aerospace companies to Oklahoma. The primary objective was to identify new investment avenues, foster research and development collaborations, and solidify supply chain partnerships within the aerospace and defense sectors. We view this event as a significant step in reinforcing Oklahoma’s status as a global hub for aviation and advanced manufacturing.

The mission highlights the deepening economic relationship between the State of Oklahoma and Japan. This visit is not an isolated event but rather the culmination of a year marked by aggressive diplomatic and economic outreach. It follows multiple trade missions to Japan by Oklahoma officials over the previous 12 months, including a notable visit by Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell to Kyoto to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the sister-state relationship. These consistent interactions underscore the mutual commitment to long-term economic growth and technological exchange.

Aerospace currently stands as Oklahoma’s second-largest industry, generating an estimated annual economic impact of $44 billion. With Japan already established as a top international investments in the state, evidenced by the 66 Japanese-owned companies currently operating there, this trade mission served to build upon a strong existing foundation. The delegation’s itinerary focused heavily on the future of flight, specifically targeting Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and autonomous technologies, areas where Oklahoma has cultivated significant regulatory and testing infrastructure.

Strategic Focus on Innovation and Unmanned Systems

Exploring Hubs of Technology

A central theme of the trade mission was the exploration of advanced technologies, particularly in the realm of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as Drones. The delegation visited key research and innovation hubs that define Oklahoma’s modern aerospace landscape. In Stillwater, representatives toured the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education (OAIRE). This facility is pivotal in the state’s strategy to lead the nation in drone testing, safety regulation, and the integration of autonomous systems into the national airspace.

Following the visit to Stillwater, the group traveled to Tulsa to engage with the Tulsa Innovation Labs. This organization serves as a hub for autonomous systems technology, aligning with the global shift toward automated logistics and defense solutions. By showcasing these specific facilities, the Oklahoma Department of Commerce demonstrated the state’s readiness to support high-tech foreign direct investment. We observe that the specific interest from Japanese firms in these sites indicates a shift from traditional manufacturing investments toward research-driven and technology-focused partnerships.

The itinerary also included meetings in Oklahoma City and Tulsa with various state agencies and existing businesses. These interactions were designed to provide the Japanese delegates with a comprehensive view of the local business climate, regulatory support, and the skilled workforce available in the region. The dual focus on traditional aerospace strength and emerging autonomous technologies presents a compelling case for international companies looking to expand their North-American footprint.

“We were honored to welcome leading aerospace companies from Japan and highlight why Oklahoma is a trusted, long-term partner for doing business. Japan and Oklahoma share a strong history of mutual respect and economic collaboration, and this visit builds on that foundation in exciting ways.”

, Matt Pinnell, Lt. Governor of Oklahoma

The Delegation: Industry Titans and Specialized Innovators

The composition of the Japanese delegation reflects the diverse needs of the modern aerospace supply chain, ranging from heavy manufacturing to digital security. Among the attendees was Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, a global engineering giant. Mitsubishi already maintains a footprint in Tulsa through the Intercontinental Jet Service Corp. Their expertise spans aircraft manufacturing, including the CRJ series, as well as space launch vehicles and heavy machinery. Their presence suggests a potential interest in expanding existing capabilities or exploring new manufacturing verticals within the state.

Another critical participant was Toray International America. As the world’s largest supplier of carbon fiber composites, Toray plays an essential role in modern aerospace manufacturing, supplying critical materials for aircraft such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The presence of material science leaders alongside manufacturers creates a holistic environment for supply chain discussions. Additionally, Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, a specialized trading company for the defense and security sector, joined the mission. Their portfolio includes helicopter sales, business jets, and space business services, including satellite launches and International Space Station (ISS) utilization.

The delegation also included companies focused on the technological infrastructure required for next-generation aerospace. Cinter Technology Services, an IT provider specializing in security, RFID, and process automation, attended with a specific focus on Artificial Intelligence and drones. This aligns directly with the mission’s emphasis on UAS. Chiyoda Corp, a major integrated engineering firm involved in space-use devices and Hydrogen energy technology, and JPEX America, a management consulting firm focused on sustainable growth and logistics, rounded out the group. Financial backing and strategic facilitation were represented by Mizuho Bank, a leading Japanese financial institution, ensuring that potential deals had the necessary fiscal framework for discussion.

Economic Implications and Future Outlook

Building on the “MRO Capital” Reputation

Oklahoma is globally recognized as the “MRO Capital of the World” (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), largely due to the presence of the largest Department of Defense air depot at Tinker Air Force Base. This reputation provides a stable anchor for international investors. The trade mission leveraged this status to attract companies like Chiyoda Corp and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, who operate in sectors that require robust maintenance and engineering support. We understand that for international firms, entering a market with an established ecosystem reduces operational risk and provides immediate access to a specialized workforce.

The involvement of companies like JPEX America and Mizuho Bank suggests that the discussions extended beyond mere technical capabilities to include logistics optimization and financial structuring. JPEX America’s focus on supply chain optimization is particularly relevant given the global challenges in logistics. By integrating Japanese efficiency with Oklahoma’s central geographic location and industrial base, there is potential for significant improvements in the North American aerospace supply chain.

Furthermore, the inclusion of hydrogen energy technology interests via Chiyoda Corp points toward future possibilities in sustainable aviation. As the industry faces increasing pressure to decarbonize, partnerships that explore alternative fuels and energy-efficient manufacturing processes will be vital. Oklahoma’s energy sector, combined with Japanese engineering prowess, could lead to innovative pilot programs or joint ventures in this arena.

Concluding Section

The partnership between the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and JETRO signifies a continued commitment to international economic development. By hosting a delegation with such diverse expertise, from carbon fiber manufacturing to AI-driven drone security, Oklahoma has positioned itself as a versatile partner capable of supporting the entire aerospace lifecycle. The successful execution of this trade mission reinforces the state’s $44 billion aerospace sector and strengthens the 40-year bond with its Japanese counterparts.

Looking ahead, we anticipate that the connections made during the November 19–20 mission will lead to tangible projects in the near future. Whether through expanded manufacturing facilities, new R&D initiatives at OAIRE, or cross-border financial investments, the trajectory for Oklahoma-Japan relations remains positive. As Hideki Shimada, Chief Executive Director of JETRO Houston, noted, these efforts are aimed at building long-term partnerships that drive innovation and economic growth for both regions.

FAQ

Question: What was the primary goal of the JETRO trade mission to Oklahoma?
Answer: The primary goal was to identify new investment opportunities, foster R&D collaboration, and deepen supply chain partnerships in the aerospace and defense sectors, with a specific focus on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).

Question: Which Japanese companies participated in the delegation?
Answer: The delegation included seven companies: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Toray International America, Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, Chiyoda Corp, Cinter Technology Services, JPEX America, and Mizuho Bank.

Question: Why is the aerospace industry significant to Oklahoma?
Answer: Aerospace is Oklahoma’s second-largest industry, generating an annual economic impact of approximately $44 billion. The state is also home to the largest Department of Defense air depot and is a major hub for MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul).

Sources: Oklahoma Department of Commerce