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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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