Vigilant Aerospace installs FlightHorizon TEMPO ATM system at Oklahoma Air, Space Port
Vigilant Aerospace has installed a FlightHorizon TEMPO airspace management system with multiple long-range radars and transponder receivers at the Oklahoma Air & Space Port in western Oklahoma

Vigilant Aerospace has recently installed its FlightHorizon TEMPO airspace management system at the Oklahoma Air & Space Port in western Oklahoma. This installation is a critical component of a project undertaken for the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) to establish a national testing site and operating launchpad for both military and civilian autonomous aircraft and spacecraft. The project, awarded in early 2025 as a multi-year agreement, involves the deployment of Vigilant Aerospace's FlightHorizon system to support the development and testing of advanced uncrewed aircraft, autonomous spacecraft, and operational flights.
The FlightHorizon TEMPO system integrates multiple mobile airspace surveillance radars to ensure the safety of small aircraft and helicopters in the area. This eliminates the need for chase planes to follow every drone, significantly enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs. The system's long-range radars and transponder receivers can track aircraft across thousands of square kilometers around the airport, providing essential collision avoidance services during the flight of high-speed military drones and autonomous spacecraft expected to launch later this year.
One of the key features of the FlightHorizon TEMPO system is its automatic detect-and-avoid collision avoidance services. These services ensure that all aircraft, including autonomous spacecraft, can safely navigate the airspace without endangering other airborne traffic. Additionally, the system offers real-time traffic display capabilities, allowing air traffic controllers to monitor and manage airspace traffic efficiently. Detailed traffic logging and reporting further enhance the system's ability to provide accurate and comprehensive data on airspace activity.
The installation of the FlightHorizon TEMPO system marks a significant milestone in Oklahoma's efforts to advance the autonomous aircraft and spacecraft industry, both within the state and nationwide. Doug Wood, State Manager for Advanced Air Mobility at ODAA, highlighted the importance of this infrastructure development for long-distance, autonomous flight testing. He stated that FlightHorizon provides the robust traffic management system required, offering a standards-based, multi-sensor-ready solution that can grow with future military, cargo UAS, and air taxi operations.
Kraettli L. Epperson, Chief Executive Officer of Vigilant Aerospace, emphasized the broader impact of this project on the state. The deployment of the FlightHorizon system not only enhances airspace management capabilities but also creates new opportunities for economic growth and innovation in Oklahoma. As the state continues to develop its national proving ground for autonomous flight testing, the integration of advanced air traffic management systems like FlightHorizon TEMPO will play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient development of future aerospace technologies.
In conclusion, the installation of Vigilant Aerospace's FlightHorizon TEMPO airspace management system at the Oklahoma Air & Space Port represents a major step forward in the state's ambitious plans to become a leader in the autonomous aircraft and spacecraft industry. By providing advanced air traffic management capabilities, the system ensures the safety and efficiency of airspace operations, paving the way for future advancements in aerospace technology and innovation.









