Eric Trump Backs $1.5B AI Defense Robotics Nasdaq Deal

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XTEND, a defense robotics firm, is set to go public on the Nasdaq through a merger that will create a combined company expected to trade under the ticker XTND. The merger will provide XTEND with access to U.S.-based production infrastructure and position the company to expand domestic, NDAA-compliant production as demand rises from the U.S. and allied nations for autonomous defense systems.

Why it matters

As AI moves beyond software into real-world autonomy, defense robotics is emerging as one of its most consequential frontiers. The XTEND deal signals growing investor interest and confidence in autonomous military technology, which could have significant implications for the future of warfare and national security.

The details

XTEND's core asset is its proprietary XOS operating system, which allows drones and robotic systems to execute complex missions across air, ground, and maritime environments. The platform enables remote operations, keeping human operators out of harm's way, a capability becoming increasingly critical as global security risks intensify. The merger provides XTEND with access to U.S.-based production infrastructure, with manufacturing anchored in Tampa, Florida, positioning the company to expand domestic, NDAA-compliant production.

• The merger is expected to close later this year.

What’s next

Once listed, XTND would provide investors with exposure to another fast-growing vertical of AI: autonomous defense systems.