Gene Avakyan, an aerospace engineer and entrepreneur, has created a fleet of “robot” planes that he believes can revolutionize warfare and change the world. Avakyan, who was born in Kyiv, Ukraine, and left the country at a young age, has dedicated his life to aviation and space travel. He founded Edison Aerospace with the initial goal of developing robotic aircraft for crop-dusting, but his focus has now shifted to supporting his birthplace in its ongoing conflict.
Having experienced the turmoil of leaving Ukraine during his childhood, Avakyan is motivated to help his home country through the use of advanced technologies. He has been in discussions with U.S. defense officials and Ukrainian politicians regarding the potential military applications of his aircraft designs. These include planes equipped for locating anti-aircraft missile batteries, delivering cargo, and dropping munitions.
Avakyan recounts his journey from Ukraine, recalling the harrowing experience of leaving the country with his family. It took them months to reach the United States, where they settled in San Francisco. This experience taught Avakyan the importance of being prepared for sudden change and sacrifice.
The entrepreneur sees his mission as supporting Ukraine’s military and agricultural aviation, recognizing the country’s need for modernization in both sectors. Avakyan believes that his aircraft, capable of carrying heavy loads and flying long distances, can not only contribute to agricultural advancements but also be utilized for military purposes.
Avakyan’s aircraft technology is centered around electric, optionally-manned planes that can be piloted from a ground-based truck trailer or operate autonomously. The planes can fly for approximately an hour with a battery similar in size to those used in Tesla Model Three cars. With a wingspan of 40 feet and a payload capacity of 200 gallons, these planes can replace existing manned spray aircraft used for crop-dusting.
Besides aiding in war efforts, Avakyan envisions his technology playing a role in rebuilding Ukraine and improving agriculture globally. The current method of crop spraying involves pilots flying low and fast, resulting in numerous fatalities due to collisions with obstacles. Avakyan hopes his planes will help prevent such accidents and enable existing pilots to transition to operating his aircraft, reducing operational costs and improving profitability for companies involved in crop-dusting.
Looking ahead, Avakyan also believes that electric passenger planes, starting with air taxis, will become a reality in the near future. He aims to secure funding to develop prototypes for these innovative aircraft.
Avakyan, together with his wife Victoria Unikel, has founded several other successful businesses, including VUGA Media Group, Gossip Stone TV, and 24Fashion TV. He expresses deep gratitude for the opportunities he now enjoys and acknowledges the sacrifices made by his parents to provide him with a better life in the United States.
In his pursuit of helping Ukraine and making a positive impact in the world, Gene Avakyan continues to innovate in the aerospace industry, driven by his passion for aviation and his desire to contribute to the betterment of his birthplace.
