AeroVironment AVAV is expanding its presence in naval defense applications, with its wholly owned subsidiary VideoRay selected to support a team participating in a U.S. Navy mine-countermeasure modernization effort.
On Oct. 8, 2026, AeroVironment announced that VideoRay was supporting an AEVEX-led team selected for a prototype Other Transaction Agreement following the U.S. Navy and Department of War Innovation Unit’s Mine Countermeasure Modernization Prize Challenge. BlackSea Technologies, now part of AEVEX Maritime Systems, was one of three companies to receive challenge prizes after successfully completing demonstrations.
During competitive in-water testing, VideoRay demonstrated an autonomous mine-countermeasure remotely operated vehicle launched from an AEVEX uncrewed surface vessel. The integrated system used autonomous launch-and-recovery capabilities, allowing operators to conduct missions beyond the horizon from a remote ground control station. The demonstration included vessel transit, station keeping, underwater target investigation, simulated mine neutralization and post-engagement assessment.
VideoRay’s Mission Specialist Defender is a modular underwater robotic platform designed to accommodate different sensors, manipulators and specialized payloads. Its open architecture allows the system to integrate with different surface vessels and mission equipment, potentially supporting a range of underwater intervention and mine-countermeasure requirements.
The development also builds on VideoRay’s existing relationship with the U.S. Navy. In 2024, the company received a five-year contract valued at $92.6 million for continued production, sustainment and development of the Defender platform. The Navy had previously selected the system as the base platform for its MK20 Defender remotely operated vehicle supporting the Maritime Expeditionary Standoff Response program.
Further adoption of these technologies could support demand for underwater robotic platforms, integration services and long-term sustainment.
Defense Companies Gain From Autonomous Maritime Modernization
Naval forces are increasingly exploring uncrewed systems to further improve operational flexibility, reduce personnel exposure and strengthen capabilities in complex maritime environments. Other companies with exposure to the broader defense modernization market include:
Huntington Ingalls Industries HII is a major U.S. military shipbuilder that provides naval platforms and related services. Its position in the naval defense sector makes it relevant to broader investment in maritime capabilities.
Northrop Grumman NOC develops advanced defense technologies, including autonomous systems, sensors and mission solutions. Its portfolio reflects the wider industry focus on integrating advanced technologies into military operations.
AVAV Stock’s Earnings Estimates
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2027 earnings per share implies a decrease of 1.81% year over year.
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AVAV Stock Trades at a Discount
In terms of valuation, AVAV’s forward 12-month price-to-sales (P/S) is 2.96X, a discount to the industry’s average of 6.92X.
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AVAV Stock’s Price Performance
In the past three months, the company’s shares have lost 3.3% compared with the industry’s 14.6% decline.
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AVAV’s Zacks Rank
The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).