Erik Prince, the former Blackwater founder, has launched Vectus Air Defense Systems, a company that will deliver hardware and operational management for layered air‑defence networks. In partnership with Ukrainian drone‑software firm Swarmer, which Prince also backs, the venture will design, install and run “air defence as a service” under multi‑year contracts. Swarmer holds a 20 per cent equity stake, the rest being Prince’s.

The company markets its systems as a cheaper alternative to traditional anti‑ballistic missiles such as the Patriot, combining US, Ukrainian, Israeli and other technologies – sensors, electronic warfare, interceptor drones and rapid‑firing large‑calibre guns. Prince said the evolving threat demands a drastic cost reduction. Swarmer has reportedly supported over 100,000 combat missions in Ukraine and will help develop counter‑drone swarms for Vectus.

The founder has met suppliers and potential customers across Ukraine, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America, noting the service suits large commercial and civilian assets that cannot rely entirely on governments. Prince’s portfolio also includes Vectus Global, a security firm operating anti‑gang operations in Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo.