Trump-linked drone firm plans to build Ukrainian military tech in the U.S.

Powerus, a U.S. drone developer set to merge with a firm backed by Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, plans to introduce Ukrainian military technology to the United States to heighten domestic manufacturing due to escalating Pentagon requirements, according to Reuters on September 30. The merger with Nasdaq-listed Aureus Greenway Holdings is expected to be finalized in early October.

Donald Trump's sons, through their investment fund American Ventures, hold an indirect 9.9% stake in Aureus, with both Powerus executives and Trump Jr.'s spokesperson confirming their role as passive investors with no operational involvement. Powerus aims to boost operations through mergers and foreign collaborations, particularly focusing on producing military technology, especially from Ukraine.

Brett Velicovich, Powerus' president and a former U.S. Army Special Operations intelligence analyst, revealed that the company is in discussions with Ukrainian defense technology firms, intending to incorporate capabilities such as long-range attack drones. He envisions Powerus as a comprehensive solution for the Pentagon by revamping and adapting foreign technology for domestic manufacturing.

Founded in October 2025, Powerus reported $1.2 million in sales during its first quarter of 2026. In March, the company showcased its Guardian interceptor drones, developed jointly with Ukrainians. Powerus also recently secured a U.S. Air Force contract valued at up to $90 million and a separate $22.3 million commercial deal to safeguard Middle Eastern energy infrastructure.

The firm recently signed a preliminary agreement with Pakistan's Defense Ministry, and Ambassador Olha Stefanishyna reported that over 20 U.S. drone and tech companies have been collaborating with Ukraine, with several establishing offices in Kyiv.