Event

AV acquires Empirical Systems Aerospace to expand unmanned aviation engineering and manufacturing capability

Mar 16, 2026 · Acquisition · AeroVironment · Defence

  • AV acquired Empirical Systems Aerospace, a producer of unmanned aircraft systems and advanced air mobility platforms.
  • ESAero adds electric and hybrid propulsion work, rapid aerospace prototyping, AS9100-certified UAS manufacturing, and facilities in San Luis Obispo.
  • The deal strengthens AV's ability to move from platform design into deeper aviation engineering and manufacturing execution.

AeroVironment, now branded AV, is a U.S. defense technology company building uncrewed systems across air, land and adjacent battlefield domains. Its portfolio includes drones, loitering munitions, UGVs, counter-UAS, directed energy and mission software.

Segment
Defence
Event type
Acquisition
Geography
Arlington, Virginia · United States