Drone specialist AeroVironment (AVAV 7.60%) saw its stock gain notable altitude on Tuesday, thanks to an update from the company on a lucrative government contract. The company's share price soared almost 8% higher on the day, comparing very favorably to the S&P 500's (^GSPC 0.72%) relatively marginal (0.7%) rise.
AeroVironment announced just after market close on Monday that it had been awarded a new delivery order for its Switchblade loitering munition systems. This is part of a broader contract worth as much as $990 million from the U.S. Army, totaling $288 million worth of the well-reputed drone system. It is also the third delivery order within the Army's directed requirement for lethal unmanned systems contract.
In the press release divulging the news, AeroVironment quoted its general manager of loitering munition systems Brett Hush as saying that his company continues "to deliver for the U.S. Army with our superior supply chain and manufacturing capacity."
The contract was awarded to AeroVironment in August 2024, and it was by far the largest in the company's history. The Pentagon was clearly eager to partner with AeroVironment, as the language of the contract all but specified a call for Switchblades.
AeroVironment is a popular defense stock these days, and for good reason. Drones have become a near-indispensable weapon of war, as evidenced by their heavy use in the Ukraine-Russia war. The company is on the cutting edge of military technology, and especially with the Army contract, it should remain a high-profile and important supplier.
Disclaimer: Investing carries risk. This is not financial advice. The above content should not be regarded as an offer, recommendation, or solicitation on acquiring or disposing of any financial products, any associated discussions, comments, or posts by author or other users should not be considered as such either. It is solely for general information purpose only, which does not consider your own investment objectives, financial situations or needs. TTM assumes no responsibility or warranty for the accuracy and completeness of the information, investors should do their own research and may seek professional advice before investing.