Vigilant Aerospace Named Top Robotics Company in Fast Company Awards

Vigilant Aerospace Systems, a company at the forefront of drone safety technology, has been named one of the top four robotics and automation companies in Fast Company’s 2026 Next Big Things in Tech Awards. The recognition highlights the company’s FlightHorizon PILOT product, which processes transponder signals to guide drones away from other aircraft, ensuring safer airspace for both crewed and uncrewed vehicles.

According to Fast Company, the awards recognize emerging technologies that have the potential to transform how people work and live. This year, the magazine’s editors and writers reviewed over 1,000 applications to select 145 winners across various categories, including space robots and other innovative technologies. Vigilant Aerospace Systems was among the chosen, alongside companies like Algen Biotechnologies, Inc., Emulate, Inc., and Synaptics, Inc.

FlightHorizon PILOT, Vigilant Aerospace’s solution, is designed to address the growing need for collision avoidance in drone operations. The system processes transponder signals from other aircraft, guiding drones away from potential collisions. Vigilant has also recently deployed a ground-based version of the technology for general-aviation airports, aiming to manage both human- and robot-flown operations safely.

Kraettli L. Epperson, CEO and co-founder of Vigilant Aerospace Systems, expressed pride in the recognition.

The technology behind FlightHorizon PILOT is based on two licensed NASA patents and has been used in projects for NASA, the FAA, and the U.S. Air Force. It is also deployed at uncrewed aircraft test sites and flight corridors across the United States. For aircraft manufacturers and operators, FlightHorizon PILOT offers a way to bring traffic awareness and collision avoidance on board their aircraft as they prepare for new FAA regulations that allow for routine drone flights over long distances.

Founded in 1995, Fast Company is a leading business magazine and media brand covering innovation, technology, leadership, creativity, and design. The magazine spotlights the people, companies, and ideas transforming industries and shaping the future of business. Its journalism explores how forward-thinking organizations compete, create, and drive change, inspiring readers to challenge convention and lead with purpose.

Vigilant Aerospace Systems is building the safety layer for the future of flight. Its FlightHorizon software combines radar, aircraft tracking data, and intelligent algorithms to detect air traffic, predict conflicts, and provide automatic collision avoidance. The company works with government, defense, and commercial partners to help drones fly beyond visual line of sight and safely share airspace with crewed aircraft. Its mission is to make autonomous aviation safer, more scalable, and practical for everyday use.