Author: Carlos Guido Guido

Press Release

AV Secures Landmark $240M Space Long-Haul Laser Communication Order

09/08/2025

Laser CommAV secures $240M contract award for its long-haul laser communications terminals [Credit: AV]

ARLINGTON, Va., September 8, 2025 – AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), global manufacturer of all-domain defense technologies and mission-critical space capabilities, today announced a nearly $240M order for its long-haul laser communications terminals from an undisclosed customer who will deploy the systems on orbit.

AV’s long-haul laser communications terminals have demonstrated multi-orbit, space-to-space satellite crosslink capabilities while operating in the complex challenges of space environments, including jitter, extreme temperatures, and the absence of atmosphere. The systems offer new capabilities for transferring high-bandwidth data in space–enabling the secure exchange of more data at a faster rate across further distances, including LEO, MEO, GEO orbits, and beyond.

“This contract moves our superior, next-generation long-haul laser communication terminals from the lab to orbit–a significant milestone not only for our team and this technology but for commercial space industry capabilities,” said Mary Clum, Executive Vice President of AV’s Space and Directed Energy Group. “Since validating the technology earlier this year, we’ve been internally investing in our manufacturing and scaling production to meet the demand signals we’re hearing from our customers. We’re ready to deliver and ready to show what these terminals can do in orbit.”

In March, AV completed a successful two-terminal long-haul, multi-orbit laser communication system demonstration and announced its manufacturing readiness for orbit. The achievement marks a significant breakthrough in the development of space-based laser communication technology with far-reaching implications for commercial sectors.

AV’s laser communication terminals are suitable for satellite bus providers, offering a longer range, greater accuracy, and higher reliability for free-space optical communications. The capability builds upon and advances systems previously developed and deployed by AV, many of which remain in orbit today.

 

About AeroVironment, Inc.

AeroVironment (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities—built to meet the mission needs of today’s warfighter and tomorrow’s conflicts. At the core of these technologies lies AV_Halo, a modular, mission-ready suite of AI-powered software tools that empowers warfighters and enables full-battlefield dominance: detect, decide, deliver. With a national manufacturing footprint and a deep innovation pipeline, AV delivers proven systems and future-defining capabilities at speed, scale, and operational relevance. For more information, visit www.avinc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are made on the basis of current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of our control, that may cause our business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, our ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain additional contracts; changes in the regulatory environment; the activities of competitors; failure of the markets in which we operate to grow; failure to expand into new markets; failure to develop new products or integrate new technology with current products; and general economic and business conditions in the United States and elsewhere in the world. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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AeroVironment
+1.703.418.2828
pr@avinc.com

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AV Announces AV_Halo™ Unified Software Platform for Next-Gen Operational Advantage

09/04/2025

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ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 4, 2025 – AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global defense technology leader delivering software-enabled disruptive autonomous systems, today announced AV_Halo™, a hardware-agnostic software platform that unifies the company’s suite of mission-ready software tools — to include multi-domain command and control (C2), AI-enhanced intelligence analysis, synthetic training, and autonomous targeting — into a single open-standards software ecosystem capable of integrating with any other battle management systems. AV_Halo provides a modular, mission-ready suite of AI-powered software tools that empowers warfighters to dominate the mission–across air, land, sea, space and cyber domains.

“In today’s rapidly evolving operational environment, speed, autonomy, modularity, and interoperability are non-negotiable,” said Wahid Nawabi, AV Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. “With edge intelligence, mission autonomy and dynamic C2, we will build upon our unique ability to carry out maneuver warfare in the age of drones dominance. AV_Halo is designed for the battlefield of tomorrow–empowering warfighters to seamlessly command diverse crewed and uncrewed assets across domains and make better decisions faster to reduce risk to human life.”

AV’s integrated software stack, matched with the company’s autonomous systems and precision munitions, enables full battlefield dominance: detect, decide, deliver. The initial roll-out of the company’s AV_Halo software strategy will focus on three mission-critical capability sets:

  • AV_Halo COMMAND: Battle Management with C2 for Unmanned Vehicles – Situational awareness drives decision-making with continuous, AI-enhanced sensor feeds, telemetry, and environmental data into a secure, mission-specific operating picture. It enables theater-wide asset coordination, whether fixed, mobile, or distributed. AV_Halo COMMAND fuses AV’s KINESISTM tactical universal control architecture with VigilantHalo mission control User Interface and robust sensor fusion engine to provide a layered C2 capability for both offensive and defensive missions.  AV_Halo COMMAND integrates with other services within the software platform as well as other third-party capabilities.
  • AV_Halo VISION: Onboard Computer Vision for Autonomous Targeting – AV_Halo VISION enables real-time visual processing and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities on-platform, even in GPS-denied or comms-degraded environments. Enhanced with fused tracking from AV_Halo COMMAND’s C2 core, it delivers persistent autonomous targeting. AV_Halo VISION includes AV’s SPOTR Edge computer vision software and WISARD AI/ML processing module.
  • AV_Halo PINPOINT: Directed Energy, Pointing and Tracking Technologies – Exact target acquisition and tracking for offensive radio frequency (RF) and laser capability payloads allows new and legacy platforms to operate independently across ISR, loitering, and strike profiles. Used in combination with AV_Halo COMMAND enables responsive autonomy driven by real-time threat perception. AV_Halo PINPOINT is at the core of AV’s LOCUST Laser Weapon SystemTM and Titan C-UASTM family of products.

“AV_Halo leverages the large portfolio of AV’s software suite of applications in one common software core, integrating our rapid product development process to accelerate innovation, interoperability, and deployment,” said Scott Bowman, AV Chief Technology Officer & Vice President of Global Engineering. “For mission planning or mission command, for mounted or dismounted operations, for training or for frontlines, AV_Halo wraps around all platforms and provides the flexibility and speed necessary to meet the challenges of tomorrow, today.”

AV_Halo follows the principles of the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), a design strategy mandated by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to improve interoperability, agility, and sustainability in defense systems. As missions evolve, AV_Halo scales effortlessly, offering reliable solutions that adapt to emerging threats and operational demands–enabling operators to deploy exactly what is needed for any mission while minimizing cost. It seamlessly integrates across allied military and commercial systems, setting a new standard for interoperability in complex, multi-domain environments.

“Locked ecosystems and walled-off gardens are, by their nature, anti-innovation,” said Bowman. “By focusing on interoperability, we’re prioritizing collaboration. Our industry partners are encouraged to work within, and connect to, AV_Halo to bring best-in-class capabilities to the warfighter faster. The potential to create a global halo of protection, awareness and connectivity is here, and we welcome the opportunity to partner with leaders in the defense and commercial industry to make it a reality.”

Looking ahead, AV will continue to expand the AV_Halo software ecosystem with additional mission-ready capabilities, including advanced autonomous control, automated airspace deconfliction, immersive training and simulation, and other emerging tools that extend across the full spectrum of operations. These future releases will further enhance AV_Halo’s ability to deliver synchronized autonomy, cross-domain coordination, and mission adaptability—ensuring that warfighters remain equipped with the most advanced, flexible, and decisive tactical software ecosystem available.

 

About AeroVironment, Inc.

AeroVironment (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities—built to meet the mission needs of today’s warfighter and tomorrow’s conflicts. At the core of these technologies lies AV_Halo, a modular, mission-ready suite of AI-powered software tools that empowers warfighters and enables full-battlefield dominance: detect, decide, deliver. With a national manufacturing footprint and a deep innovation pipeline, AV delivers proven systems and future-defining capabilities at speed, scale, and operational relevance. For more information, visit www.avinc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are made on the basis of current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of our control, that may cause our business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, our ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain additional contracts; changes in the regulatory environment; the activities of competitors; failure of the markets in which we operate to grow; failure to expand into new markets; failure to develop new products or integrate new technology with current products; and general economic and business conditions in the United States and elsewhere in the world. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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AeroVironment
+1.703.418.2828
pr@avinc.com

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AV Delivers First Two Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser Systems to U.S. Army

09/03/2025

AV Delivers First Two Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser Systems to U.S. Army

ARLINGTON, Va., August 31, 2025 – AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) today announced the successful delivery of the first two mobile counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) prototype Laser Weapon Systems (LWS) to the U.S. Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) as part of the first increment of the Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) prototyping effort. The AMP-HEL prototype systems feature AV’s 20kW-class LOCUST™ LWS integrated on the General Motors Defense Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV) platform–a significant advancement in mobile, frontline C-UAS capabilities.

“This milestone marks a major step forward in the Army’s pursuit of fieldable directed energy capabilities,” said Mary Clum, Senior Vice President for AV’s Space & Directed Energy Group. “Through the AMP-HEL program, AV is delivering our extensively validated LOCUST laser system–a technically sophisticated solution that has demonstrated reliability and operational readiness for the C-UAS fight. We are honored to support the U.S. Army RCCTO and, together, accelerate warfighter access to these critical capabilities.”

Following integration at AV’s Directed Energy (DE) manufacturing facility in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the AMP-HEL prototypes underwent rigorous government acceptance testing at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona to validate performance, mobility, safety, and lethality. Subsequently, Army units performed new equipment training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma to prepare for potential employment of DE capabilities. Soldier feedback from the event is shaping ongoing enhancements to ensure warfighter readiness and operational relevance in dynamic threat environments.

The AMP-HEL prototyping effort is part of the Army’s broader modernization initiative to rapidly develop and field DE solutions to defeat a range of threats, including drones and other airborne systems. The integration of laser systems on the lightweight, highly mobile ISV platform reflects a commitment to scalable, adaptable, and expeditionary force protection solutions. Next month, AV is set to deliver the second increment of AMP-HEL–two Joint Light Tactical Vehicles with a 20kW class LOCUST LWS, radar, and command-and-control systems.

“The need for these systems from real world events is clear: the time is now for directed energy to get into the hands of warfighters everywhere and we are confident that LOCUST meets that need,” said John Garrity, Vice President of Directed Energy Systems for AV. “AV is committed to supporting the Army’s modernization and modularity priorities. We stand ready to meet the mission need through full-scale manufacturing of our LOCUST laser systems, including AMP-HEL and other mobile and fixed-site platforms, to increase lethality and continue to build on our extensively validated reliability and precision tracking and targeting technology to address the evolving threats.”

 

About AeroVironment, Inc.

AeroVironment (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities—built to meet the mission needs of today’s warfighter and tomorrow’s conflicts. At the core of these technologies lies AV_Halo, a modular, mission-ready suite of AI-powered software tools that empowers warfighters and enables full-battlefield dominance: detect, decide, deliver. With a national manufacturing footprint and a deep innovation pipeline, AV delivers proven systems and future-defining capabilities at speed, scale, and operational relevance. For more information, visit www.avinc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are made on the basis of current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of our control, that may cause our business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, our ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain additional contracts; changes in the regulatory environment; the activities of competitors; failure of the markets in which we operate to grow; failure to expand into new markets; failure to develop new products or integrate new technology with current products; and general economic and business conditions in the United States and elsewhere in the world. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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pr@avinc.com

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AV Announces Marketing Partnership with the Washington Commanders

09/02/2025

AV Announces Marketing Partnership with the Washington Commanders

Collaboration reinforces AV’s identity as “Built for Defense. Built for D.C.”

AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global leader in all-domain defense technologies, today announced a marketing sponsorship with the Washington Commanders.

As part of the sponsorship, AV will serve as the presenting sponsor of Commanders’ defensive third downs at Northwest Stadium, aligning with AV’s role as a global leader in defense technology that dominates all domains–land, sea, air, space, and cyber. The sponsorship underscores both organizations’ deep ties to the Washington, D.C. region: the Commanders, embodying the community’s resilience and pride, and AV, rooted in the area’s long-standing tradition of military service and national defense while delivering mission-critical technologies from its Arlington headquarters.

“The Commanders are building a winning team in D.C., and I’m excited for AV to join as a proud sponsor,” said Wahid Nawabi, AV Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Much like the team, AV is built to thrive in Washington. From the gridiron at Northwest Stadium to the halls of the Pentagon–speed, agility, and toughness are necessary to succeed in D.C.”

AV will be featured prominently at Commanders home games throughout the 2025 season with in-stadium digital signage and video boards. Additionally, to honor service members and D.C.’s role in protecting national security, AV will sponsor select military-themed integrations throughout the season.

With more than 3,750 employees across 40 states, AV continues to expand its national and global presence while maintaining a strong foothold in the D.C. region. The company’s recent acquisition of Arlington-based defense technology leader BlueHalo, LLC, along with the July 2025 opening of its $12.5 million Germantown, Maryland, facility, underscores AV’s long-term commitment to the region. The 57,000-square-foot research and manufacturing site is expected to generate more than 200 high-tech, high-paying jobs. The venture expands AV’s investment in the DMV region, where the company already operates 17 facilities encompassing 260,000 square feet of workspace and employing nearly 700 people.

“This partnership is an opportunity to highlight our commitment to the region we call home,” said Church Hutton, AV Chief Growth Officer. “Being built for D.C. is not just about location—it reflects our culture of innovation, resilience, and national service. Just as the Commanders inspire pride across the region, AV is proud to provide solutions that safeguard and empower those who serve.”

“AV’s DMV roots and commitment to trusted relationships and creating best-in-class work product make us fortunate to welcome them as an official partner of the Commanders,” said Jim Rushton, Chief Partnerships Officer, Washington Commanders. “We’re inspired to be aligned with AV’s 50+ year history of disruptive innovation that has fueled their success.  As important, we’re proud to be aligned with their corporate social responsibility initiatives to serve our shared local communities.”

 

About AeroVironment, Inc.

AeroVironment (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities—built to meet the mission needs of today’s warfighter and tomorrow’s conflicts. At the core of these technologies lies AV_Halo, a modular, mission-ready suite of AI-powered software tools that empowers warfighters and enables full-battlefield dominance: detect, decide, deliver. With a national manufacturing footprint and a deep innovation pipeline, AV delivers proven systems and future-defining capabilities at speed, scale, and operational relevance. For more information, visit www.avinc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are made on the basis of current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of our control, that may cause our business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, our ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain additional contracts; changes in the regulatory environment; the activities of competitors; failure of the markets in which we operate to grow; failure to expand into new markets; failure to develop new products or integrate new technology with current products; and general economic and business conditions in the United States and elsewhere in the world. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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Army Accelerates Long Range Reconnaissance UAS Capability

08/21/2025

The Army recently awarded contracts to AeroVironment and Edge Autonomy to rapidly deliver initial Long-Range Reconnaissance (LRR) systems. The AeroVironment P550 and Edge Autonomy Stalker Block 35X are Group 2 UAS designed to provide Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA) organic to maneuver battalions. Capabilities include an open systems architecture, allowing quick integration of additional capabilities to meet ground commanders’ mission requirements, primarily at the Battalion level.

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AV Delivers Initial P550 Autonomous Group 2 eVTOL Unmanned Aircraft Systems to U.S. Army for LRR Program

08/20/2025

AV Delivers Initial P550 Autonomous Group 2 eVTOL Unmanned Aircraft Systems to U.S. Army for LRR Program

ARLINGTON, Va., August 20, 2025 – AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a leader in intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems, today announced the successful delivery of its Group 2 P550™ small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) to the U.S. Army as part of the Long-Range Reconnaissance (LRR) program to support training and operations for Transformation in Contact (TiC) brigades. This initial delivery includes multiple P550 systems along with new equipment training and training master trainers to ensure mission readiness and rapid integration into the U.S. Army TiC Brigades and other designated units.

This milestone marks a significant achievement for both the Army and the all-new P550 product line. Built from the ground up with a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), the P550 is designed to meet evolving warfighter requirements, enabling rapid adaptation in dynamic, contested environments with multiple payload, radio, and power options to counter emerging threats and enhance lethality. It builds on decades of AV’s UAS development and production of combat-proven systems delivered to the Department of Defense and over 50 partner nations.

“We are proud to deliver the P550 to Army units, empowering warfighters with a system that can quickly adapt to fluid combat scenarios, providing unmatched reliability and flexibility,” said Trace Stevenson, AV’s President of Autonomous Systems. “Our team remains committed to supporting the Army with seamless delivery, training, and sustainment to ensure these systems are ready when needed.”

The P550 is AV’s latest autonomous Group 2 eVTOL system, redefining battlefield adaptability with rapid deployment, advanced situational awareness, and targeting and strike capabilities. Its proven AI and autonomy enable smarter, safer operations for maneuver forces. With class-leading payload capacity up to 15 pounds, endurance of up to 5 hours on all-battery power, and a Gross Take-Off Weight (GTOW) of 55 pounds, it can be reconfigured in under five minutes without tools, including hot-swapping payloads and batteries. Its open and scalable architecture not only future proofs the P550 for continuous upgrades but also keeps pace with technological advancements at low cost and risk.

The initial deliveries included comprehensive new equipment training conducted by AV’s field service representatives to ensure operators and maintainers can effectively integrate the P550 into their units. The systems were received by PM and evaluated by Master Trainers, who completed “train-the-trainer” instruction to enable rapid fielding and operational integration.

AV will continue to fulfill additional orders to support the Army’s evolving operational requirements.

 

About AeroVironment, Inc.

AeroVironment (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities—built to meet the mission needs of today’s warfighter and tomorrow’s conflicts. At the core of these technologies lies AV_Halo, a modular, mission-ready suite of AI-powered software tools that empowers warfighters and enables full-battlefield dominance: detect, decide, deliver. With a national manufacturing footprint and a deep innovation pipeline, AV delivers proven systems and future-defining capabilities at speed, scale, and operational relevance. For more information, visit www.avinc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are made on the basis of current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of our control, that may cause our business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, our ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain additional contracts; changes in the regulatory environment; the activities of competitors; failure of the markets in which we operate to grow; failure to expand into new markets; failure to develop new products or integrate new technology with current products; and general economic and business conditions in the United States and elsewhere in the world. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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Heinrich Tours AV Manufacturing Facility, Receives Demo of Badger Satellite Communications System

08/11/2025

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, toured AV’s space operations manufacturing facility and received a demonstration of their next generation BADGER satellite communications system, which will expand and modernize the nation’s satellite operations capability, strengthen national security, and further solidify New Mexico’s role as a global hub for defense and space innovation.

U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) speaking at the AV space operations manufacturing facility, August 8th, 2025

 

 

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AV and SNC Announce Strategic Partnership to Deliver Golden Dome for America “Limited Area Defense” Architecture

08/07/2025

AV and SNC Announce Strategic Partnership to Deliver Golden Dome for America “Limited Area Defense” Architecture

ARLINGTON, Va., August 7, 2025 – AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space and cyber, and SNC, the global aerospace and national security company known for its elite mission systems integration expertise, today announced a strategic partnership to align multi-domain capabilities to define and build the next generation of integrated, open architecture air & missile defense in support of the Golden Dome for America (GDA).

“The Trump Administration understands what has been a long-held belief within the defense industry –there is an immediate and critical need for a layered system that provides a last line of defense to protect America against current threats and next-generation aerial attacks from near-peer and rogue nations,” said Wahid Nawabi, AV Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Together, AV and SNC can rapidly provide novel and affordable defensive solutions, ensuring unmatched limited area ‘under-dome’ protection for critical U.S. infrastructure.”

AV and SNC are building a proven industrial base team focused on providing comprehensive, layered defenses within GDA, that shield specific, limited-area, high-value locations, such as bases, ships, airfields or critical infrastructure, but then can extend its range as new sensors and interceptors are brought online, particularly from space. AV and SNC are integrating and aligning existing, open architecture solutions using passive and active sensing, radio frequency, directed energy, kinetic energy, electronic warfare and cyber solutions, addressing the complete kill chain to neutralize group 1-4 unmanned aerial systems (UAS), advanced cruise missiles and other next-generation aerial threats. Additionally, SNC sister company, Sierra Space, and AV are exploring synergies to address critical GDA challenges.

“An ambitious, next-generation shield that protects the American homeland from more complex threats requires industry ingenuity and collaboration on par with the Manhattan Project,” said SNC CEO Fatih Ozmen. “With our legacy of complex systems integration and open architecture expertise, SNC is thrilled to work with AV to bring together complementary capabilities and cutting-edge technologies to make Americans safer.”

 

About AeroVironment, Inc.

AeroVironment (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities—built to meet the mission needs of today’s warfighter and tomorrow’s conflicts. At the core of these technologies lies AV_Halo, a modular, mission-ready suite of AI-powered software tools that empowers warfighters and enables full-battlefield dominance: detect, decide, deliver. With a national manufacturing footprint and a deep innovation pipeline, AV delivers proven systems and future-defining capabilities at speed, scale, and operational relevance. For more information, visit www.avinc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are made on the basis of current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of our control, that may cause our business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, our ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain additional contracts; changes in the regulatory environment; the activities of competitors; failure of the markets in which we operate to grow; failure to expand into new markets; failure to develop new products or integrate new technology with current products; and general economic and business conditions in the United States and elsewhere in the world. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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AeroVironment
+1.703.418.2828
pr@avinc.com

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AV’s Wildcat Reaches Key Milestones in DARPA’s ANCILLARY Program’s EVADE Demonstration

07/26/2025

AV’s Wildcat Reaches Key Milestones in DARPA’s ANCILLARY Program’s EVADE Demonstration

ARLINGTON, Va., – June 26, 2025 – AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) announced today that its Wildcat uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) has achieved a series of development milestones in support of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) Early VTOL Aircraft Demonstration (EVADE). Wildcat has successfully completed VTOL-to-forward-flight transitions, validated its core flight and propulsion systems, and begun integrating critical mission payloads—demonstrating rapid progress toward an operationally relevant capability.

Wildcat is a Group 3, tail-sitting vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft designed for launch and recovery from ship decks in denied and distributed maritime environments. Its compact footprint, autonomous launch and recovery, and robust flight performance across high sea states make it a flexible and scalable solution for contested littoral operations.

“Wildcat reflects the spirit of MacCready Works – breakthrough thinking, accelerated timelines, and deep mission alignment,” said Chris Fisher, AV’s vice president of MacCready Works Novel Systems. “In a matter of weeks, we’ve gone from system integration to full forward flight transitions, all while validating key subsystems. This is what innovation at operational speed looks like.”

Within this fast-paced program, innovations include a new Visual Precision Landing System (VPLS), an AVACORE™-enabled integration of Government Furnished Software and testing of a new modular autopilot and AI compute module all of which feed back into AV’s existing product lines including the JUMP® 20-X, P550™, and others. Recent flight testing included the expansion of Wildcat’s hover envelope and the first successful transitions to forward flight using the full-scale test platform. Key systems—such as a heavy fuel propulsion system, fuel, and flight control—were validated in both hover and level flight, with aerodynamic performance confirmed across a range of airspeeds and flight profiles. These results reflect the maturity of the design and the pace of advancement within the EVADE framework.

The EVADE initiative accelerates DARPA’s AdvaNced airCraft Infrastructure-Less Launch And RecoverY (ANCILLARY) program Phase 2 plan, which the agency initially projected to conduct flight testing in late 2026.

AV is now integrating mission-critical payloads that will enable Wildcat to support ISR, communications, and other tactical effects from a single, modular platform. In the next phase of flight tests Wildcat will perform simulated maritime missions—transitioning between hover and forward flight while executing payload-driven tasking in representative operational scenarios.

Designed and developed by MacCready Works, AV’s advanced development team, Wildcat embodies the company’s commitment to solving the hardest challenges in autonomy, edge operations, and next-generation air dominance.

 

About AeroVironment, Inc.

AeroVironment (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities—built to meet the mission needs of today’s warfighter and tomorrow’s conflicts. At the core of these technologies lies AV_Halo, a modular, mission-ready suite of AI-powered software tools that empowers warfighters and enables full-battlefield dominance: detect, decide, deliver. With a national manufacturing footprint and a deep innovation pipeline, AV delivers proven systems and future-defining capabilities at speed, scale, and operational relevance. For more information, visit www.avinc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are made on the basis of current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of our control, that may cause our business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, our ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain additional contracts; changes in the regulatory environment; the activities of competitors; failure of the markets in which we operate to grow; failure to expand into new markets; failure to develop new products or integrate new technology with current products; and general economic and business conditions in the United States and elsewhere in the world. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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AV Reveals Skyfall: Future Concept Next-Gen Mars Helicopters for Exploration and Human Landing Preparation

07/24/2025

AV Reveals Skyfall: Future Concept Next-Gen Mars Helicopters for Exploration and Human Landing Preparation

ARLINGTON, Va., July 24, 2025 – Today, AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global leader in intelligent, multi-domain autonomous systems, revealed Skyfall—a potential future mission concept for next-generation Mars Helicopters developed with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to help pave the way for human landing on Mars through autonomous aerial exploration. The concept is heavily focused on rapidly delivering an affordable, technically mature solution for expanded Mars exploration that would be ready for launch by 2028.

Skyfall is designed to deploy six scout helicopters on Mars, where they would explore many of the sites selected by NASA and industry as top candidate landing sites for America’s first Martian astronauts. While exploring the region, each helicopter can operate independently, beaming high-resolution surface imaging and sub-surface radar data back to Earth for analysis, helping ensure crewed vehicles make safe landings at areas with maximum amounts of water, ice, and other resources. The data Skyfall collects could also advance the nation’s quest to discover whether Mars was ever habitable.

The concept would be the first to use the “Skyfall Maneuver”–an innovative entry, descent and landing technique whereby the six rotorcraft deploy from their entry capsule during its descent through the Martian atmosphere. By flying the helicopters down to the Mars surface under their own power, Skyfall would eliminate the necessity for a landing platform–traditionally one of the most expensive, complex and risky elements of any Mars mission.

This new Mars Helicopter concept leverages AV and JPL’s prior success as co-developers of the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter program, which was executed on time and on budget and completed 72 historic flights at Mars’ Jezero Crater in just under three years–outperforming flight targets by more than 14 times and longevity targets by more than 32 times expectations. True to its name, Ingenuity showcased American innovation and space superiority by achieving the first powered flight on another world, introducing the speed and data collection capability that aerial operations bring to the Red Planet.

“Skyfall offers a revolutionary new approach to Mars exploration that is faster and more affordable than anything that’s come before it,” said William Pomerantz, Head of Space Ventures at AV. “Thanks to a true partnership between industry and government, we’re expanding the unprecedented success of Ingenuity. With six helicopters, Skyfall offers a low-cost solution that multiplies the range we would cover, the data we would collect, and the scientific research we would conduct–making humanity’s first footprints on Mars meaningfully closer.”

Skyfall builds upon AV’s expertise in multi-domain autonomous systems and proven capabilities as part of the Ingenuity program, including its lightweight aircraft structure suitable for the thin atmosphere of Mars. As part of the public-private partnership, JPL plans to transfer some components of its Ingenuity work to AV for the new mission, commercializing many of the proven avionics, flight software, and modeling techniques that have worked on Mars.

“Ingenuity established the United States as the first and only country to achieve powered flight on another planet. Skyfall builds on that promise, providing detailed, actionable data from an aerial perspective that will not only be of use planning for future crewed missions, but can also benefit the planetary science community in their search for evidence that life once existed on Mars,” said Trace Stevenson, President of Autonomous Systems at AV. “From ground to air to sea and now to space, our fleet of uncrewed systems is unleashing American drone dominance across all domains and inspiring the next generation of American scientists, engineers, and explorers to ensure that dominance persists for generations to come.”

Both Ingenuity and the Skyfall concept are part of the broader AV_Space portfolio, which spans ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance), space technologies and payloads, and space operations. AV is a leader in long-haul laser communication, offering resilient space-based communication terminals that are faster, more secure, and consume less power than traditional systems. AV’s advanced surveillance, data collection, and rapid analysis capabilities enhance customer situational awareness across various domains and ensure our nation’s space superiority. With its BADGER and WASP ground-based phased array antennas, AV is modernizing and simplifying mission operations while rapidly expanding satellite command and control capabilities for complex SATCOM, telemetry, and electronic warfare missions.

With NASA’s goal of launching inspiring missions to Mars during favorable launch windows as the planets align, AV has already begun internal investments and coordination with NASA JPL to facilitate a potential 2028 launch.

About AeroVironment, Inc.

AeroVironment (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) is a defense technology leader delivering integrated capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. The Company develops and deploys autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, space-based platforms, directed energy systems, and cyber and electronic warfare capabilities—built to meet the mission needs of today’s warfighter and tomorrow’s conflicts. At the core of these technologies lies AV_Halo, a modular, mission-ready suite of AI-powered software tools that empowers warfighters and enables full-battlefield dominance: detect, decide, deliver. With a national manufacturing footprint and a deep innovation pipeline, AV delivers proven systems and future-defining capabilities at speed, scale, and operational relevance. For more information, visit www.avinc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are made on the basis of current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of our control, that may cause our business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, our ability to perform under existing contracts and obtain additional contracts; changes in the regulatory environment; the activities of competitors; failure of the markets in which we operate to grow; failure to expand into new markets; failure to develop new products or integrate new technology with current products; and general economic and business conditions in the United States and elsewhere in the world. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact:

AeroVironment
+1.703.418.2828
pr@avinc.com

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Opening Statement: Industry Perspectives on How Drone Warfare Abroad Is Transforming Threats at Home

07/16/2025

Opening Statement: Industry Perspectives on How Drone Warfare Abroad Is Transforming Threats at Home Church Hutt

Chairman Gimenez, Ranking Member McIver, and Distinguished Members of the Subcommittee: 

Thank you for the opportunity to testify on how drone warfare abroad is informing domestic investments to prepare for threats here in the United States. I commend the committee’s focus on these challenges and your efforts to enhance the safety of the American people and the U.S. transportation systems. My name is Church Hutton, and I serve as the Chief Growth Officer for AV, formerly AeroVironment. It is my pleasure to testify alongside industry partners as we highlight associated challenges, opportunities, and the importance of providing effective capabilities to our servicemembers and first line responders. 

 

 

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AV and UAS Denmark Establish Strategic Partnership to Advance Allied UAS Capabilities in Europe

06/18/2025

ARLINGTON, Va., June 18, 2025 – AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) today announced it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Hans Christian Andersen Aiport in Odense, Denmark–home to the UAS Denmark Test Center–to explore joint utilization of the center’s expansive airspace and advanced test facilities. The agreement aims to leverage UAS Denmark’s strategic range and infrastructure to support AV’s uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) demonstration operations, mission training, and customer integration activities across the region.

The collaboration is expected to enable joint research and development (R&D) initiatives and accelerate the growth of the UAS Denmark Test Center as a regional epicenter for advanced UAS innovation, evaluation, and operational readiness.

“This MOU represents a significant milestone in expanding AV’s operational footprint in Europe,” said Shane Hastings, AV’s vice president and general manager of Medium UAS. “Our partnership with UAS Denmark positions us to deliver enhanced capabilities, mission-critical training, and integrated UAS solutions to allied defense forces and government stakeholders across the region.”

This agreement follows AV’s February 2025 Framework Agreement with the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO), under which AV is delivering advanced UAS, operator and maintainer training, and lifecycle support to strengthen the Danish Armed Forces’ intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. The MOU with UAS Denmark builds on this momentum and reinforces AV’s commitment to delivering tactical advantage through scalable, reliable, and combat-proven UAS platforms.

By formalizing this collaboration, AV continues to expand its international partnerships and operational support capabilities—ensuring allied forces have access to the tools and training required to maintain readiness in dynamic environments.

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