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AeroVironment Buys ESAero in $200 Million Deal to Accelerate Prototype-to-Production

The move follows last year's $4.1 billion BlueHalo acquisition, signaling a deeper push into counter-drone capabilities.

AeroVironment logo is seen in this illustration taken September 9, 2025. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration
ESAero's VESA counter-UAS drone interceptor. Image: AeroVironment

Overview

  • ESAero will operate as a subsidiary reporting to AeroVironment’s Precision Strike and Defense Systems group within the Loitering Munitions Systems business unit.
  • The company is known for rapid transitions from prototype to production and runs prototyping and manufacturing facilities in San Luis Obispo, California.
  • AeroVironment CEO Wahid Nawabi said ESAero’s agility will help bridge the gap between conceptual design and manufacturing execution.
  • AeroVironment expects ESAero’s leadership and workforce to integrate into its operations and culture following the close.
  • BlueHalo, acquired in 2025, developed what is now marketed as the LOCUST counter-drone weapon system, highlighting AeroVironment’s expanding air-defense portfolio.