Blackwater's Erik Prince launches 'air defense as a service' startup Vectus with Swarmer, which holds a 20% stake; aims to protect data centers, energy sites, and military bases from drone attacks

Erik Prince, known for his role in Blackwater, has launched Vectus Air Defense Systems to combat drone threats to critical infrastructure. The startup, in partnership with Swarmer, aims to provide tailored air defense solutions for data centers, energy sites, and military bases.¹²³⁴⁶

Vectus operates under a unique “air defense as a service” model, offering customized systems designed to meet specific operational requirements. The company integrates advanced technologies, including radars, sensors, and interceptors, to create layered defense solutions.

Swarmer, which holds a 20% stake in Vectus, has extensive experience, having conducted over 100,000 combat missions in Ukraine. Their software enables a single operator to control nearly 700 drones simultaneously, enhancing Vectus's capabilities in countering unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Prince retains an 80% ownership of Vectus and emphasizes that the startup will operate independently from his previous venture, Vectus Global, which was launched last year. The two companies, while sharing a founder, will maintain separate operations.⁵

The introduction of Vectus comes at a time when the demand for advanced air defense solutions is increasing, particularly in sectors vulnerable to drone attacks. Prince's venture aims to fill this gap by providing comprehensive, tailored defense systems to both military and private sector clients.