E44 – Silent Arrow

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In this episode, Mike interviews Chip Yates, founder of Yates Electrospace Corporation.

With a background in racing, Chip has made a name for himself by setting numerous world records as a pioneer in electric-powered motorcycles and airplanes. His journey took a strategic turn when he encountered a complex military challenge, leading to the inception of his company.

Chip pivoted to defense, launching Silent Arrow—disposable cargo drones deployed from planes like the C-130. These drones must fly dozens—even hundreds—of miles yet be cost-effective enough to be discarded after just a single use.

Chip shares his decade-long journey in defense tech, offering insights into affordable, executable innovation in an industry full of giant companies and complex technology.

 

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Show Notes

00:50 intro

01:47 Chip's racing background

03:03 company origins

03:41 getting involved in defense tech

04:11 the idea and 1st concept vehicle

06:53 the Smithsonian

08:34 2,000 glider drone

08:48 how Silent Arrow works

10:14 the need for more standoff

12:10 operational evals of prototypes

13:50 crawl walk run

15:03 the Pacific Pivot?

15:52 Airbus partnership

17:26 powered cargo drones

19:29 interesting payloads

20:42 the C-130 of drones

20:59 design and looks

23:10 raising money in defense tech

24:27 more requirement creep

25:37 using a Tesla?!

28:34 timeline for Tesla-launch

29:28 advertising in defense

30:46 2025 expectations

31:26 a super size version

33:50 adaption vs invention

35:36 keeping the cargo intact

38:46 powered version

39:50 advice

40:37 raising money

42:21 outro

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