US drone firm Powerus has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Pakistan Army that includes an initial drone-related order, according to company co-founder Brett Velicovich. The Powerus Pakistan Army MOU was confirmed to Reuters on Wednesday, although details of the agreement have not been publicly disclosed.
Velicovich said the agreement falls within the category of unmanned aerial systems. He declined to provide information about the specific equipment involved or the value of the initial order, citing security concerns and confidentiality. The signing of the MOU and the order had not previously been reported.
Powerus develops aerial and maritime drones for military and industrial applications. The company is expected to merge with publicly traded Aureus Greenway Holdings in early October. The proposed transaction would bring the drone company into a publicly traded structure with an investment connection involving Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump.
According to US regulatory filings, Trump’s sons hold a stake in Aureus through American Ventures. The investment fund is expected to have a 9.9% beneficial ownership interest in the combined company following the planned merger. Company officials have separately said the transaction is expected to be completed in early October.
Pakistan’s military said a Powerus delegation led by Velicovich met Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Wednesday. The discussions covered defence procurement, production and long-term capacity building. However, the military’s statement did not mention the Powerus Pakistan Army MOU or the initial order.
The agreement comes as Pakistan and the United States work to strengthen ties following years of strained relations. Powerus officials said they see opportunities for greater cooperation with Pakistan’s private defence sector, including possible technology development and production in the country.
Powerus founder and CEO Andrew Fox said the company viewed Pakistan’s defence industry as developing and saw potential for collaboration. Velicovich said the company was exploring a joint technology relationship combining US and Pakistani capabilities. Company representatives also said Trump Jr. had no role in Powerus operations or contract procurement, while the White House said there were no conflicts of interest.