Form 8-K · Current Report · Filed 2026-04-09
AeroVironment Appoints Dr. Robert Smith as New Chief Operating Officer
AeroVironment, Inc. announced on April 9, 2026, the appointment of Dr. Robert Smith as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, effective April 13, 2026. Dr. Smith, a seasoned defense industry executive with extensive experience at Raytheon and BWX Technologies, will oversee the company's Autonomous Systems and Space, Cyber and Directed Energy business units. The former COO, Brad Truesdell, will transition to a consulting role starting May 1, 2026. Dr. Smith's appointment is part of AeroVironment's strategy to scale manufacturing and enhance operational execution.
- Filer
- AeroVironment Inc. AVAV · NASDAQ
- Filed
- Accession
- 0001104659-26-041267
- CIK
- 0001368622
- Signal
- High impactIndustrials
- Source
- Official filing on sec.gov ↗
Items reported
Reported Item
Market reaction
Close before filing
$186.94
Next session
-3.9%
Since filing
-20.1%
Latest close
$149.37
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Precedent
Previous filings from AVAV reporting the same item, with the next session's move:
Insider tape
Within 45 days of this filing, AVAV insiders reported 1 Form 4 transaction — net selling of $41K.
About AeroVironment Inc.
AeroVironment Inc. is a leading technology company specializing in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and related products. Primarily serving defense, public safety, and commercial markets, AeroVironment's products are known for their innovation in surveillance, reconnaissance, and tactical operations. It develops and manufactures small, unmanned aircraft systems, tactical missile systems, and electric vehicle charging solutions, contributing significantly to both military and renewable energy sectors. AeroVironment has established itself as a vital player by providing key reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities to defense forces globally, enhancing situational awareness and operational effectiveness. The company's focus on energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies underscores its commitment to sustainability. Founded in 1971 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, AeroVironment's extensive expertise and pioneering technologies continue to advance the capabilities of UAS, playing a crucial role in modern intelligence and security operations. The company's influence extends across several industries, contributing to innovations in renewable energy infrastructure and achieving strategic breakthroughs in aerial system design and application.
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