SUPPORTING THE WARFIGHTER
At Autonomous Flight Technologies (AFT), our mission is to develop practical, mission-driven autonomous systems and advanced technologies that enhance the capabilities, readiness, and safety of today's warfighter.
Founded in 2012, AFT is a U.S.-based engineering and advanced manufacturing company specializing in autonomous Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 uncrewed systems across the air, land, and maritime domains, as well as counter-UAS technologies, training platforms, AI-enabled target recognition, and rapid prototype development. Every solution is engineered to meet real-world operational requirements through modular designs, advanced manufacturing, and close collaboration with military end users.
Beyond engineering and manufacturing, AFT partners with military training facilities, government organizations, and major U.S. defense contractors to support realistic training, technology evaluation, and mission-focused capability development.
Security and compliance remain central to everything we do. AFT maintains compliance with CMMC and NIST SP 800-171 requirements, helping safeguard customer information and project data throughout the development lifecycle.
From affordable training systems and autonomous interceptor technologies to AI-enabled perception systems and next-generation autonomous platforms, AFT supports defense programs across the full Technology Readiness Level (TRL) spectrum—from early-stage concepts through operational fielding. Our mission is simple: deliver secure, mission-focused technologies that strengthen the capabilities of today's warfighter.
Founded Domains Compliance Technology
2012 Air • Land • Maritime CMMC & NIST SP 800-171TRL 1–9
Defense Programs & Expertise
Success in defense innovation requires more than advanced technology. It requires a clear understanding of the operational challenges faced by today’s warfighter. AFT’s defense team combines real-world military experience with advanced engineering, manufacturing, and autonomous systems expertise to develop practical, mission-focused solutions for modern defense requirements.
Jason Higgs Maj USAF (RET)
Director of Defense Strategy & Business Development
Jason Higgs leads AFT’s defense strategy, government engagement, and business development efforts. A retired U.S. Airforce Major with more than 20 years of Special Operations experience, Jason brings direct operational insight into the evolving needs of military organizations, training units, and defense technology programs.
His background helps ensure AFT’s products and development efforts remain aligned with real-world mission needs, end-user feedback, and the practical requirements of the modern battlefield. Jason works directly with government agencies, military units, prime contractors, training organizations, and industry partners to identify capability gaps, support program development, and help transition innovative technologies into operational use.
For defense partnerships, training facility collaboration, program opportunities, capability discussions, or government engagement, Jason serves as the primary point of contact for AFT’s defense initiatives.
Jason serves as AFT's primary point of contact for defense partnerships, government programs, military training collaborations, and strategic business development
Contact Jason Higgs
Email: jhiggs@autonomousflight.us
Mission Capabilities
Autonomous Systems Defense Technologies Engineering Services
Air C-UAS/First Strike Rapid Prototyping
Land AI Target Recognition Advanced Manufacturing
Maritime Training Platforms Systems Integration
Why AFT
AFT combines the agility of a small engineering firm with the capabilities of an experienced defense technology partner. Our team works directly with military end users, training organizations, government agencies, and industry partners to rapidly develop, evaluate, and field autonomous technologies that solve real operational challenges.
Why customers partner with AFT
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Founded in 2012
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U.S.-Owned & Operated
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CMMC & NIST SP 800-171 Compliant
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NDAA-conscious Manufacturing
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TRL 1–TRL 9 Development
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Rapid Prototyping to Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP)
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Partnerships with Military Training Organizations
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Experience Supporting Major U.S. Defense Contractors
Who We Support
AFT proudly supports organizations across the defense community, including:
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U.S. Department of Defense
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Military Training Commands
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Prime Defense Contractors
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Government Research Organizations
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Test & Evaluation Organizations
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Federal Agencies
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Allied Defense Partners
Partner with AFT
Whether your organization is developing next-generation autonomous systems, expanding military training capabilities, evaluating counter-UAS technologies, or seeking a trusted engineering partner, Autonomous Flight Technologies is ready to support your mission.
Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures
Affiliate Partners
