Ukrainian company AIDronesUA and US-based Empery Digital Inc. have signed a document creating the conditions for strategic investment, according to Defender Media. AIDronesUA develops the MAUL unmanned ground vehicle, a casualty evacuation, logistics, and ammunition-delivery platform that was previously presented at the Eurosatory 2026 defense exhibition in Paris.
MAUL is built on an all-terrain vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine, which offers a significant advantage over electric motors by enabling higher speeds. The drone can travel at up to 70 km/h when a reliable communications link is available. Its engine also allows it to operate in cold weather without the limitations associated with batteries, ArmyInform reports.
MAUL is equipped with four different types of communication links, which can back each other up. The UGV can continue moving even after overturning. Ukrainian military personnel have reported instances in which a vehicle flipped over, returned to its wheels, and continued moving.
Final agreement has not yet been signed
The parties emphasize that, at this stage, this is not a finalized investment agreement. The companies will conduct a feasibility study, financial modeling, and due diligence to assess the potential for future cooperation.
Empery Digital Inc., with which negotiations are underway, has a market capitalization of more than $81 million. The company is involved in the production of electric vehicles and also operates in the digital assets sector, including cryptocurrency.
Access to the US investment market
As part of the due diligence process, Empery Digital plans to assess AIDronesUA's technologies, operations, production requirements, financial needs, regulatory considerations, supply chains, and opportunities for international expansion.
A final agreement can be concluded only after the necessary approvals are obtained, negotiations are finalized, and the relevant documents are signed.
Potential cooperation with the US company could give AIDronesUA access to US investment, international manufacturing expertise, and global markets. The company is also considering integrating Ukrainian-developed technologies into international manufacturing and supply chains.
