AeroVironment Appoints New Chief Operating Officer

Dr. Robert Smith to oversee autonomous systems, space, and operations at defense tech firm

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:06pm

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A minimalist studio still life photograph featuring a sleek, metallic unmanned aerial vehicle model and precision engineering tools arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conveying the advanced technology and engineering expertise of AeroVironment.AeroVironment's new COO brings deep aerospace and defense expertise to help scale the company's advanced unmanned systems and space technology capabilities.Baltimore Today

AeroVironment, Inc., a leading provider of unmanned aircraft systems and tactical missile systems, has appointed Dr. Robert Smith as its new Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, effective April 13, 2026. In this role, Dr. Smith will oversee the company's Autonomous Systems and Space, Cyber and Directed Energy business units, as well as its global operations and manufacturing.

Why it matters

The appointment of Dr. Smith reflects AeroVironment's focus on scaling manufacturing to meet rising customer demand, strengthening operational execution, and enhancing capabilities in the dynamic global defense environment. His extensive experience in the defense and aerospace industry will be valuable as the company continues to grow its autonomous and space-based technology offerings.

The details

Dr. Smith joins AeroVironment from Raytheon, where he most recently served as Vice President of Radio Frequency Solutions, overseeing a multi-billion-dollar radar and electronic warfare business. Prior to that, he held various executive roles at companies like Lockheed Martin, BWX Technologies, and CAES, working on integrated defense solutions, nuclear business lines, and government operations.

  • Dr. Smith's appointment will be effective on April 13, 2026.

The players

AeroVironment, Inc.

A leading provider of unmanned aircraft systems and tactical missile systems for defense and commercial applications.

Dr. Robert Smith

An experienced aerospace and defense executive who will be joining AeroVironment as the new Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

Wahid Nawabi

The Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of AeroVironment, who will be overseeing Dr. Smith in his new role.

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What they’re saying

“Dr. Smith's appointment reflects AV's continued focus on scaling manufacturing to meet rising customer demand, strengthening operational execution and enhancing capabilities in a dynamic global defense environment.”

— Wahid Nawabi, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, AeroVironment

The takeaway

The addition of Dr. Robert Smith as AeroVironment's new Chief Operating Officer signals the company's commitment to bolstering its operational capabilities and manufacturing capacity to meet growing demand for its autonomous and space-based defense technologies in the global market.