The project focuses on creating a drone capable of operating in GPS-denied zones, offering high-payload capacity and rapid reconfiguration to meet evolving defense requirements. Production and integration work will span the company's various facilities across the United States.

Chief Executive Roger Wells described the award as a validation of the company's ability to deliver cost-effective, rapidly deployable technology. Owned by private-equity firm Madison Dearborn Partners, Aevex has seen its stock performance stabilize following an initial public offering in April that was priced at $20 per share.