Drone Firm Powerus Goes Public Following Rapid Expansion
Powerus expanded from $5.7 million in assets to a $300 million business before joining the Nasdaq in October 2026.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Public Companies
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Following a merger with a Florida golf-course operator, Powerus officially entered the public market on the Nasdaq exchange in October 2026. The company currently holds a $300 million valuation after experiencing significant growth over the past year.
Why it matters
The company's rapid scaling is underpinned by multi-million dollar defense contracts and high-profile private investment. This shift highlights how specialized drone manufacturers are increasingly integrating with government infrastructure defense priorities.
Powerus holds a $300 million business value, having grown from initial assets of $5.7 million. The firm secured a $90 million Department of Defense contract for drone interceptors, which includes an $83 million order from the U.S. Air Force.
The players
Powerus
This is a drone technology company that recently transitioned to public ownership.
Brett Velicovich
He serves as a senior executive at Powerus.
Donald Trump Jr.
He is a private investor who provided funding for the growth of Powerus.
Eric Trump
He is a private investor who provided funding for the growth of Powerus.
The details
Powerus achieved its public status by merging with a publicly listed Florida golf-course company and acquiring three additional drone businesses, including an autonomous boat startup. The company now intends to scale manufacturing capabilities with a stated goal of building individual drones in 90 seconds.
Timeline
2022: Founders operated a charity in Ukraine.
July 2025: President Trump endorsed drone industry investment, and American Ventures invested $26 million in a golf company.
December 2025: A merger with the Florida golf-course company was proposed.
October 2026: Powerus became a public company listed on the Nasdaq.
Market Landscape
Powerus mirrors the rapid industry mobilization seen under the Defense Production Act by quickly pivoting its manufacturing focus to meet national security requirements. This move positions the firm as a key competitor in the defense-tech sector against legacy contractors.
Investors and stakeholders should note that Powerus requires contractors to sign nondisparagement agreements as part of its operational policy. The company's shift to a public entity may affect future stock portfolio allocations for those monitoring the defense-tech sector.
The takeaway
The transformation of Powerus demonstrates how aggressive acquisition strategies and defense contracting can rapidly accelerate a firm's market valuation. Readers should remain aware that rapid growth in specialized tech sectors often relies heavily on government spending and high-profile private support.
Further reading
For additional context on market trends, visit the Public Companies section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NDTV.
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