Fendley Steven S.

About Fendley Steven S.

Steven S. Fendley has served as President of Kratos’ Unmanned Systems Division since January 2017. In this role, he oversees multiple operating businesses within the division, including Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems, Micro Systems, Technical Directions, 5-D Systems, and Kratos Australia. His career has been centered on aerospace and defense, with more than 30 years of experience focused on unmanned and optionally piloted aerial systems. His background spans both aerial target systems and more conventional UAS/UAV platforms. Before becoming division president, Fendley served as Senior Vice President, General Manager, and Chief Technology Officer of Composite Engineering, Inc. (CEi), now part of Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems, from March 2016 to January 2017. He previously held the position of Vice President of Engineering at CEi from February 2014 to March 2016. A major part of his earlier career was built at 5-D Systems, Inc., a defense engineering and software services contractor, where he served as President from 1999 until 2017. Following Kratos’ acquisition of 5-D, he continued as Executive Chairman and a significant owner until the transaction was completed. Across his career, Fendley has supported a range of well-known programs, including QF-4 FSAT, MQM-107E, BQM-177, BQM-167, MQM-178 Firejet, UTAP-22, X-61A Gremlin, and XQ-58 Valkyrie. These programs reflect sustained expertise in the design, development, and operational advancement of unmanned systems and test platforms for defense customers. His professional profile combines technical depth, program leadership, and experience managing complex technology portfolios. Fendley earned a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Auburn University. He is also a long-standing member of IEEE, AUVSI, and AUSA, underscoring his active engagement in the engineering and defense communities. From a corporate governance perspective, his leadership supports Kratos’ broader strategy of delivering affordable, innovative unmanned systems capabilities to U.S. defense and allied markets.