AeroVironment Inc. has received a $4.3 million contract from the U.S. Army for support services to troops using the Switchblade tactical missile system, the company announced on Thursday. The new award increases to $63.8 million an existing contract between the Monrovia unmanned aircraft manufacturer and the Army’s Close Combat Weapons Systems office. The new award has a provision for a $7.1 million extension. The Switchblade is a tube-launched missile system that is either remotely piloted or programmed to strike targets in war zones. The device is manufactured in Simi Valley. “Switchblade enables our forces to work within the rules of engagement to neutralize lethal threats through its portability, precision and rapid deployment,” said Roy Minson, senior vice president for unmanned aircraft systems, in a prepared statement. Shares closed up 8 cents to $27.07 on the Nasdaq. The board of Superior Industries International Inc. has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 18 cents a share. The Van Nuys aluminum wheel manufacturer will pay the dividend on Jan. 16 to shareholders of record as of Jan. 2. The board last declared a dividend in October, also for 18 cents. Shares closed down 29 cents, or about 1.5 percent, to $18.23 on the New York Stock Exchange.
