Washington D.C., October 14, 2021 – Airbus U.S. Space & Defense Inc board of directors has elected Christopher Emerson as chairman of the board effective October 1, 2021.

Robert Geckle formerly COO, Head of Operations and Corporate Functions at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc, has been appointed CEO.

“Rob and I have a long and successful professional history at Airbus and have worked especially hand-in-glove this past year to set this company on a trajectory that we are confident will garner success for both the customer and our extraordinary team. He brings to the table the best of what Airbus has to offer and has my full faith and confidence as he takes on the role of CEO.” Said Emerson of his successor in the CEO role.

Geckle brings over 20 years of legal and business experience, and over a decade with Airbus across its major lines of business in multiple countries. His extensive work in support of Airbus’ defense and space, rotorcraft, and commercial activities gives him a deep understanding of how Airbus U.S’ world-class government and defense solutions can best serve the U.S. customer.

“This transition brings about an exciting new chapter for Airbus U.S.” said Mark Sirangelo, Airbus U.S. board member. “The hands-on way in which leadership works here truly sets it apart, and with Rob at the helm andChris continuing as board chair, the possibilities for success remain endless.” “I have worked closely with both Chris Emerson and Rob Geckle for many years, and I am confident that in their respective new roles, Chris and Rob will continue to deliver exemplary results for our U.S. defense and space customers,” said C. Jeffrey Knittel, Airbus U.S. director, and Airbus Americas Chairman and CEO.

After a successful 25-year tenure at Airbus, Emerson will remain heavily involved in informing the direction and overall strategy for Airbus U.S. in his Chairman role.

About Robert Geckle
Robert A. Geckle, Jr. is the Chief Executive Officer of Airbus U.S. Space and Defense, Inc. Geckle oversees the strategic objectives and general operations for the U.S.-based space, intelligence, and defense company and all its business lines. Rob leads his team in delivering an intensely customer focused approach, aiming tobring the best tailored products and capabilities to the US Defense and National Security markets. He previously served as COO of Airbus U.S., as SVP, Head of Airbus S.A.S Legal Affairs – Industry & Services for Airbus in Toulouse, France, as well as in General Counsel positions within the Airbus Group both in the United States and Europe. Rob received his B.A., cum laude, from Middlebury College and JD, cum laude, from Boston College Law School.

About Christopher Emerson
Chris Emerson now serves as Chairman of the Board for Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc., and previously served as CEO. After 25 years of commitment and extraordinary contribution to the Airbus Group, Chris will remain closely tied to Airbus U.S., providing strategic advice and guidance to the leadership team. Previously based in Grand Prairie, TX, he was President of Airbus Helicopters (AHI) from 2015 to 2019 after successful tenures as CFO, Head of Marketing, and Head of Airbus Future Programs and Product Strategy where he played a key role in establishing Airbus’ A320 final assembly line in Mobile, AL. Chris holds a degree inInternational Finance from the University of Alabama where he currently serves in the President’s Cabinet.

About Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc.
Headquartered in Arlington, VA and operating under an SSA, Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc offers advanced solutions to meet the most complex U.S. defense, security, space, and intelligence requirements. A long time U.S. partner, Airbus U.S. leverages world-class satellite, laser communication, rotor and fixed wing solutions to help our National Security focused customers meet their missions.

Contacts for the Media
Morgan Keese
+1 (571) 524-3561
Morgan.Keese@AirbusUS.com