Private military contractor and former Navy SEAL Erik Prince, a President Trump ally, has launched Vectus Air Defense Systems to protect critical infrastructure from drone attacks. The startup will design and operate customized air-defense systems for companies, militaries, and governments.

Prince formed the company with Ukrainian drone software firm Swarmer, which holds a 20% stake. "It's clear that the threat is evolving rapidly and the demand for a private-sector solution is very strong," Prince said Friday. He claims Vectus will reduce air-defense costs for both governments and the private sector.

The U.S.-based venture targets sites in the Middle East facing Iranian drone threats, including data centers, energy installations, and military bases. It follows the recent launch of Vectus Global, Prince's new brand for a worldwide security network operating in Latin America and beyond.