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AeroVironment Expands Manufacturing Capacity, UAS Products, With ESAero Acquisition

By Cal Biesecker

Monday, March 16th, 2026

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AeroVironment Expands Manufacturing Capacity, UAS Products, With ESAero Acquisition

ESAero's VESA counter-UAS drone interceptor. Image: AeroVironment

AeroVironment [AVAV] on Monday said it has acquired Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. (ESAero) in a $200 million deal that adds manufacturing, design and prototyping capacity, complimentary expertise in electric and hybrid propulsion, more small unmanned aircraft system (UAS) products, counter-UAS drones, and capabilities for launched effects weapons. Deal terms include $160 million in AV stock and the rest in cash. ESAero has about 300 employees and the company’s leadership will remain intact, and will operate as an AV subsidiary reporting…

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