Robert A. Geckle, Jr.
Chairman & CEO, Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc.
Robert A. Geckle, Jr. has served as the chairman and CEO of Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc. since 2021, and leads Airbus’ defense business in the U.S.
Focused on U.S. military and government customers, Geckle oversees the company’s five lines of business, which include space systems and small satellite manufacturing, helicopters, fixed-wing military aircraft, unmanned aerial systems, and communications equipment.
Why Watch
Geckle said one key focus area for Airbus U.S. Space & Defense in 2025 is maturing and incorporating autonomous software into its MQ-72C Logistics Connector, an unmanned variant of the Airbus UH-72 Lakota.
“We believe this aircraft will redefine the future of Marine Corps aviation,” he said. “Leveraging two decades of Lakota’s proven capability, our MC-72C will offer warfighters a versatile, affordable, and autonomous platform that can support global operations in austere environments.”
Airbus U.S. is entering the second year of the Aerial Logistics Connector Middle Tier of Acquisition Rapid Prototyping Program, which aims to provide the Marine Corps with aircraft prototypes that demonstrate capabilities to the warfighter through a series of operational demonstrations and experiments. The program will continue to evolve missionization over the next several years, ultimately enabling more advanced levels of autonomous flight across the Marine Corps and broader Joint Force.
Geckle also noted the company is focused on growth and positioning its space business to maximize value for customers.
“This is a great time in the market, and we are committed to execution of current programs for our customers as well as delivering space technology to support future space communications and missile tracking efforts,” he said. “It is an honor to lead this company each and every day. I’m excited to see what the future holds for Airbus U.S. Space & Defense.”