AeroVironment Appoints New COO Robert Smith
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Apr 09 2026
0mins
Should l Buy AVAV?
Source: seekingalpha
- Executive Appointment: AeroVironment has named Robert Smith as Executive VP and Chief Operating Officer, effective April 13, 2026, overseeing Autonomous Systems, Space, Cyber & Directed Energy units, and global operations and manufacturing, aiming to enhance the company's competitiveness in the defense sector.
- Predecessor Background: Smith joins from Raytheon (RTX), where he led a multi-billion-dollar radar and electronic warfare business, and his extensive industry experience is expected to drive strategic growth and technological innovation at AeroVironment.
- Stock Price Reaction: Following the announcement, AeroVironment's shares fell by 4.5%, reflecting market concerns regarding the new leadership and potentially impacting investor confidence in the company's future prospects.
- Market Environment: Despite challenges in the defense sector, AeroVironment recently secured a $25 million contract from the U.S. Air Force for technology development, indicating its potential and opportunities in a high-demand market.
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Analyst Views on AVAV
Wall Street analysts forecast AVAV stock price to rise
13 Analyst Rating
13 Buy
0 Hold
0 Sell
Strong Buy
Current: 197.230
Low
315.00
Averages
390.75
High
450.00
Current: 197.230
Low
315.00
Averages
390.75
High
450.00
About AVAV
AeroVironment, Inc. is a defense technology provider delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, precision strike systems, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities. The Company’s segments include Autonomous Systems (AxS) and Space, Cyber, and Directed Energy (SCDE). The AxS segment focuses on the design, development, production, delivery, and support of intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems, including uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and ground robot systems. It includes the Company’s former Uncrewed Systems, Loitering Munitions Systems, and MacCready Works segments as well as Radio Frequency and Kinetic Counter-UAS Electronic Warfare Systems and others. The SCDE segment focuses on advanced technologies in the space domain providing space-based and ground-based platforms, cyber capabilities, and directed energy systems.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
AeroVironment Secures $14.6 Million U.S. Army Contract
- Significant Contract Value: AeroVironment has secured a $14.6 million production contract to provide the U.S. Army with the VAPOR Compact Long Endurance unmanned aircraft system, enhancing its portfolio of tactical drone programs and reflecting sustained demand for small unmanned systems in defense.
- Technological Advantages: The VAPOR drone features all-electric vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, designed for operation in harsh environments, and utilizes a modular design that supports various sensor payloads, thereby enhancing battlefield reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities in line with modern military needs.
- Rapid Deployment Capability: The VAPOR system can be assembled and launched in about two minutes from a compact transport case, capable of carrying payloads of up to 24 pounds (approximately 10.89 kilograms) with an endurance of up to two hours, addressing the tactical need for quick response.
- Broad Market Prospects: With increasing U.S. military demand for tactical unmanned aircraft, AeroVironment's growth is closely tied to its expansion in loitering munitions and autonomous systems, which is expected to drive sustained revenue growth and competitive advantage in the market.
See More
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- Missile Defense System Funding: The proposal includes $18 billion for the new layered missile defense system known as the Golden Dome, which is expected to integrate space-based sensors and intercept technologies to counter emerging threats.
- Emerging Market Leaders: AeroVironment and Kratos Defense are positioned as key suppliers in loitering munitions and jet-powered drones, while Ondas and Red Cat gain traction in swarm and counter-drone technologies.
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- Multi-Domain Protection: The test demonstrated that the LOCUST system can provide rapid and effective all-domain protection across any platform and mission, further solidifying AeroVironment's leadership position in defense technology by meeting the needs of various military services.
- Navy Application Advantages: AeroVironment's high-energy laser system can be easily rolled on and off ships without expensive modifications, providing a more cost-effective solution compared to traditional interceptor missiles, which is likely to attract more Navy customers.
- Infinite Ammunition Advantage: The LOCUST system can recharge using the ship's existing power network, offering virtually unlimited ammunition supply, which will greatly enhance the Navy's operational capabilities and national security, marking a significant breakthrough in defense technology.
See More
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- Successful Laser Weapon Demo: AeroVironment's new laser weapon system, LOCUST, successfully tracked, engaged, and neutralized multiple drone threats during a live-fire demonstration at sea, highlighting its significance in modern warfare.
- Military Collaboration: The demonstration was conducted in partnership with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office, underscoring the military's commitment to this technology and its potential applications in future combat scenarios.
- Positive Market Reaction: Following the demonstration, AeroVironment's stock rose over 6%, reflecting investor confidence in the new technology, while the stock has increased nearly 41% over the past 12 months, outperforming the S&P index.
- Strategic Implications: The rapid deployment capability of the LOCUST system allows the Navy to quickly integrate high-energy lasers across the fleet without costly modifications, significantly enhancing national security defense capabilities.
See More
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- Palantir's Revenue Growth: Palantir Technologies reported fourth-quarter revenue of $1.4 billion, a 70% increase year-over-year, with U.S. government revenue reaching $570 million, up 66%, highlighting strong demand and market position in military data analytics.
- AeroVironment's New Product Launch: AeroVironment's recently announced Mayhem 10 unmanned system boasts a range of 62 miles and a 10-pound payload, with the CEO stating it sets a new standard for operational versatility and survivability on the modern battlefield, contributing to a 143% revenue increase to $408 million in Q3 of fiscal 2026.
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See More
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- Increased Defense Budget: The Trump administration's request for $200 billion to finance the war in Iran, alongside a proposed increase of the military budget from $1 trillion to $1.5 trillion by 2027, is expected to significantly boost demand for defense contractors.
- Palantir Revenue Surge: Palantir reported $1.4 billion in revenue for Q4, a 70% increase year-over-year, with U.S. government revenue reaching $570 million, up 66%, highlighting its strong performance and demand in military data analytics.
- AeroVironment Product Launch: AeroVironment's recent introduction of the Mayhem 10 unmanned system, capable of 62 miles range and 10-pound payload, sets a new standard for operational versatility and survivability on the modern battlefield, likely enhancing its competitive edge.
- ETF Investment Opportunity: The Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF, with $8.3 billion in assets and an expense ratio of 0.58%, offers investors a convenient way to capitalize on rising defense spending while ensuring diversification through its market-cap-weighted structure that limits exposure to any single stock.
See More
AeroVironment Secures $14.6 Million U.S. Army Contract
- Significant Contract Value: AeroVironment has secured a $14.6 million production contract to provide the U.S. Army with the VAPOR Compact Long Endurance unmanned aircraft system, enhancing its portfolio of tactical drone programs and reflecting sustained demand for small unmanned systems in defense.
- Technological Advantages: The VAPOR drone features all-electric vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, designed for operation in harsh environments, and utilizes a modular design that supports various sensor payloads, thereby enhancing battlefield reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities in line with modern military needs.
- Rapid Deployment Capability: The VAPOR system can be assembled and launched in about two minutes from a compact transport case, capable of carrying payloads of up to 24 pounds (approximately 10.89 kilograms) with an endurance of up to two hours, addressing the tactical need for quick response.
- Broad Market Prospects: With increasing U.S. military demand for tactical unmanned aircraft, AeroVironment's growth is closely tied to its expansion in loitering munitions and autonomous systems, which is expected to drive sustained revenue growth and competitive advantage in the market.
See More
U.S. Defense Budget Marks Record Investment in Drones
- Record Drone Investment: The U.S. government allocates over $74 billion to drone and counter-drone programs, marking a historic investment that underscores a strategic shift in military conflict approaches.
- Missile Defense System Funding: The proposal includes $18 billion for the new layered missile defense system known as the Golden Dome, which is expected to integrate space-based sensors and intercept technologies to counter emerging threats.
- Emerging Market Leaders: AeroVironment and Kratos Defense are positioned as key suppliers in loitering munitions and jet-powered drones, while Ondas and Red Cat gain traction in swarm and counter-drone technologies.
- Growing Order Momentum: Ondas' subsidiary Airobotics secures a $20 million order as part of a national program for autonomous border protection infrastructure, with expectations for expansion through additional development and procurement rounds.
See More
AeroVironment Successfully Tests Key Anti-Drone Platform
- Successful Anti-Drone Test: AeroVironment successfully tested its LOCUST Laser Weapon System aboard the USS George H.W. Bush, showcasing its robust capabilities in counter-drone technology, which is expected to significantly enhance the company's competitiveness in the defense technology market.
- Multi-Domain Protection: The test demonstrated that the LOCUST system can provide rapid and effective all-domain protection across any platform and mission, further solidifying AeroVironment's leadership position in defense technology by meeting the needs of various military services.
- Navy Application Advantages: AeroVironment's high-energy laser system can be easily rolled on and off ships without expensive modifications, providing a more cost-effective solution compared to traditional interceptor missiles, which is likely to attract more Navy customers.
- Infinite Ammunition Advantage: The LOCUST system can recharge using the ship's existing power network, offering virtually unlimited ammunition supply, which will greatly enhance the Navy's operational capabilities and national security, marking a significant breakthrough in defense technology.
See More
Successful Laser Weapon Demonstration Enhances Defense Capabilities
- Successful Laser Weapon Demo: AeroVironment's new laser weapon system, LOCUST, successfully tracked, engaged, and neutralized multiple drone threats during a live-fire demonstration at sea, highlighting its significance in modern warfare.
- Military Collaboration: The demonstration was conducted in partnership with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office, underscoring the military's commitment to this technology and its potential applications in future combat scenarios.
- Positive Market Reaction: Following the demonstration, AeroVironment's stock rose over 6%, reflecting investor confidence in the new technology, while the stock has increased nearly 41% over the past 12 months, outperforming the S&P index.
- Strategic Implications: The rapid deployment capability of the LOCUST system allows the Navy to quickly integrate high-energy lasers across the fleet without costly modifications, significantly enhancing national security defense capabilities.
See More
U.S. Defense Budget Sees Major Increase Amid Iran War
- Defense Budget Surge: The Trump administration has requested $200 billion from Congress for the Iran war, alongside plans to increase the 2027 military budget from $1 trillion to $1.5 trillion, which is expected to significantly boost investment interest in the defense sector.
- Palantir's Revenue Growth: Palantir Technologies reported fourth-quarter revenue of $1.4 billion, a 70% increase year-over-year, with U.S. government revenue reaching $570 million, up 66%, highlighting strong demand and market position in military data analytics.
- AeroVironment's New Product Launch: AeroVironment's recently announced Mayhem 10 unmanned system boasts a range of 62 miles and a 10-pound payload, with the CEO stating it sets a new standard for operational versatility and survivability on the modern battlefield, contributing to a 143% revenue increase to $408 million in Q3 of fiscal 2026.
- ETF Investment Opportunity: The Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF tracks the Spade Defense Index with $8.3 billion in assets under management and an expense ratio of 0.58%, providing investors with a convenient way to capitalize on rising defense spending while ensuring portfolio diversification.
See More
Surge in Defense Spending Fuels Growth for Tech Companies
- Increased Defense Budget: The Trump administration's request for $200 billion to finance the war in Iran, alongside a proposed increase of the military budget from $1 trillion to $1.5 trillion by 2027, is expected to significantly boost demand for defense contractors.
- Palantir Revenue Surge: Palantir reported $1.4 billion in revenue for Q4, a 70% increase year-over-year, with U.S. government revenue reaching $570 million, up 66%, highlighting its strong performance and demand in military data analytics.
- AeroVironment Product Launch: AeroVironment's recent introduction of the Mayhem 10 unmanned system, capable of 62 miles range and 10-pound payload, sets a new standard for operational versatility and survivability on the modern battlefield, likely enhancing its competitive edge.
- ETF Investment Opportunity: The Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF, with $8.3 billion in assets and an expense ratio of 0.58%, offers investors a convenient way to capitalize on rising defense spending while ensuring diversification through its market-cap-weighted structure that limits exposure to any single stock.
See More
