08/18/2026
From a ribbon cutting celebration straight into another groundbreaking at the FISTA Innovation Park, big things are happening in Lawton.
The Lawton Prototype Integration Facility (LPIF) will add 200,000 square feet dedicated to high tech manufacturing and testing, along with a separate 100,000 square foot airport area depot designed to maintain critical defense systems.
Together, these two projects are projected to bring 130 new jobs to the Lawton area, creating opportunities that extend far beyond the facilities themselves.
For FISTA CEO Dr. Ratliff, that impact is personal:
“This is important to me because I was born and raised right here in Lawton. I grew up here, moved away from university because of job opportunities that didn’t exist.”
That is what makes this project so meaningful. Job opportunities are a catalyst for growth, not only for individuals and their families, but for an entire community. By supporting our nation’s defense, these projects are also creating pathways for local Oklahomans, strengthening Lawton’s economy, and giving the next generation more opportunities to build their futures right here at home.
We are proud to be part of projects that help the local communities of Oklahoma grow!
https://www.kswo.com/2026/08/12/fista-leidos-break-ground-project-new-heights-lawton/