A drone manufacturer backed by a son of the U.S. President has inked a $22.3 million agreement with a Gulf-based energy company to supply anti-drone detection equipment. The deal arrives amid a wave of private firms bolstering their self-defense measures in the aftermath of the Iran conflict.

West Palm Beach-headquartered Powerus has signed the pact with an unnamed entity to deliver systems capable of detecting and tracking incoming drones. While the technology is designed to eventually integrate with Powerus's "Guardian" interceptor, this particular transaction excludes that defensive component.

Brett Velicovich, president of Powerus, stated in an interview: "The evolution of modern warfare has forced companies to build their own protective measures, even if it's only at the detection level for now—this is an irreversible trend." Citing security concerns, Powerus declined to disclose the partner company, its country of operation, or the specific deployment locations.

The contract highlights a growing inclination among private enterprises operating in volatile regions to construct independent defense frameworks rather than relying solely on government protection. Iran has demonstrated a willingness to use low-cost drones to strike facilities valued at hundreds of millions of dollars, while traditional air defense systems remain prohibitively expensive, in short supply, and typically unavailable to commercial buyers.

Velicovich drew an analogy: "You wouldn't equip an Amazon (AMZN.US) warehouse with a Patriot missile system. This is more like a new form of insurance." Powerus will provide a protection system centered on low-cost interceptors, sensors, and automated technology, accompanied by operational staff and training for local security forces.

Powerus has previously secured multiple U.S. defense contracts. According to an earlier announcement this year, the company plans to merge with Aureus Greenway Holdings Inc. (PUSA.US), a Nasdaq-listed golf course operator backed by President Trump's sons, Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr. That merger has yet to be finalized.

As the Trump administration prioritizes domestic drone production and counter-drone capabilities, the associated investments have also drawn scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest.