Elevating Innovation: Vigilant Aerospace Systems and Oklahoma's Growing Aerospace Sector
As an Oklahoma law firm with clients nationwide, it's exciting to see companies in our state pushing the boundaries of innovation and contributing to both local and national landscapes. One such company is Vigilant Aerospace Systems, based right here in Oklahoma City. Recently, Vigilant has achieved a significant milestone by securing a contract with the U.S. Air Force.
The U.S. Air Force Contract: A Landmark for Vigilant and Oklahoma
Founded in 2015, Vigilant Aerospace Systems has been working on autonomous safety systems, primarily for uncrewed aircraft. Their recent contract with the U.S. Air Force focuses on the development of a detect-and-avoid system for long-endurance drones. This contract, coordinated by the Small Business Administration, places Vigilant at the forefront of the aerospace industry while also marking Oklahoma as a growing leader in this high-stakes field.
FlightHorizon: Leading with Safety and Autonomy
Vigilant's core product, FlightHorizon, utilizes data from multiple sources to create a real-time snapshot of air traffic surrounding unmanned aircraft systems. This product provides automatic safety measures, allowing drones to operate effectively and securely, even when out of sight of a human pilot. The system meets rigorous industry technical standards and will be central to Vigilant's new project with the U.S. Air Force.
Strengthening Collaborative Networks in Oklahoma
Another noteworthy aspect of Vigilant's operation is its collaboration with various Oklahoma institutions. The company has established strong ties with Oklahoma State University, the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology, Tulsa Innovation Labs, and the Oklahoma Aeronautics Department. These partnerships highlight how local businesses and educational institutions can come together to drive innovation and provide practical applications for cutting-edge technology.
A Bright Future for Aerospace in Oklahoma
The contract is more than just a business win for Vigilant; it has broader implications for the entire state. As the CEO of Vigilant, Kraettli L. Epperson, noted, this kind of recognition for innovative work has the power to attract more investments and partnerships at the city, state, and regional levels. It also signals the maturation of Oklahoma's aerospace industry, which is increasingly focusing on advanced air mobility, including larger drones capable of transporting both people and cargo.
In summary, Vigilant Aerospace Systems' new contract with the U.S. Air Force is a prime example of how local innovation can have a national impact. It's a testament to the ingenuity present here in Oklahoma, and a promising sign for the future of our state's aerospace industry.