Congressman Troy Downing Returns to VTI Aerospaceto Review Progress on Montana Defense Innovation
- Aug 4
- 3 min read
Follow-up visit highlights VTI’s AFRL-supported work advancing critical aviation autonomy technology
BOZEMAN, Mont. — VTI Aerospace, a Bozeman-based aerospace artificial intelligence company, recently welcomed Congressman Troy Downing back to its headquarters to review progress since his previous visit and learn more about VTI’s work developing critical aviation autonomy technology for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).
The follow-up visit reflected Congressman Downing’s continued engagement with VTI and the company’s appreciation for the support he and his staff provide to Montana small businesses working in the defense industry. A U.S. Air Force Search and Rescue veteran and private pilot, Congressman Downing brings direct perspective on the relevance and operational importance of technologies being developed by VTI and other Montana small businesses to support America’s warfighters.
“Montana companies like Volair Technologies are proving that cutting-edge defense innovation can happen right here in our state,” said Congressman Downing.“VTI’s work with the Air Force Research Laboratory is strengthening aviation safety and helping ensure our aircraft can operate effectively in contested and GPS-denied environments. I’m proud to support Montana businesses that are creating jobs, advancing American innovation, and strengthening our national security.”
During the visit, VTI briefed Congressman Downing on its AFRL-supported development of AI-enabled perception and navigation technology intended to help aircraft operate safely near airfields and fly approaches to landing when GPS and traditional radio navigation aids are unavailable.
“We are investigating how to navigate in and around airfields and fly approaches to landing without GPS or other radio navigation aids. This problem is fundamentally different than area navigation without GPS, which others are working on, as navigation near airfields must be with respect to certain airfield and runway features to ensure performant and safe operations,” said Eric Muir, Co-Founder and CEO of Volair Technologies.
This research is intended to help future crewed and uncrewed aircraft continue operating from conventional or austere airfields in contested and GPS-denied environments. By reducing reliance on vulnerable external infrastructure, the capability could improve the resilience, safety, and operational effectiveness of future defense aviation missions.
“Congressman Downing has taken a genuine interest in the work our team is doing and in what Montana companies like VTI can contribute to national defense,” Muir said. “We appreciate his continued support for our team, for Montana innovators, and for the small businesses working to transition critical technologies from research into operational use.”
The visit also highlighted Montana’s growing role in aerospace and defense innovation. Support from Montana’s congressional leaders and the Montana Department of Commerce, combined with the state’s patriotic, mission-focused workforce, makes Montana a strong environment for small businesses developing technologies that contribute to national security.
The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of War, or the U.S. Government.
About VTI Aerospace
VTI Aerospace is the trade name of Volair Technologies Inc., an aerospace artificial intelligence company headquartered in Bozeman, Montana. VTI develops advanced perception, communications-intelligence, and autonomy-enabling software that helps aircraft navigate safely and intelligently in complex operational environments. Working with commercial and government partners, including the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, VTI is building AI-powered capabilities that enhance aviation safety, resilience, and operational effectiveness. For more information, visit vtiaero.com.
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