Ret. Gen. CQ Brown Jr. Joins Powerus Amidst Controversy

Retired General CQ Brown Jr., former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has joined the drone technology company Powerus as an executive-in-residence and senior adviser. This announcement follows Brown's dismissal by President Donald Trump in February 2021, where he was replaced by General Dan Caine. Powerus, based in Florida, is co-owned by Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., and specializes in autonomous drone systems for military and commercial applications.

The Hill

In his new role, Brown will focus on advising Powerus on defense strategy, the deployment of autonomous systems, and fostering national security partnerships. He emphasized the importance of technological advancement in defense, stating, “The companies that will define the future of American defense are the ones building real capability right now, not waiting for permission.” This reflects a broader trend in the defense sector, where innovation is increasingly prioritized.

The Hill

Powerus is in the process of merging with Aureus Greenway Holdings, a golf course operator, with plans to adopt the name "Powerus Corporation." The merger aims to enhance Powerus's position in the competitive landscape for Pentagon contracts, particularly in the realm of AI-enabled autonomy and modern battlefield capabilities. Co-founder Brett Velicovich, a former special operations intelligence analyst, highlighted that Brown's expertise will integrate operational realities with strategic defense leadership in the company's developments.

The Hill

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended President Trump's decision to fire Brown, asserting on Fox News that Brown was “not the right man for the moment.” This statement underscores the contentious nature of Brown's departure and the differing perspectives on his leadership within military circles.

The Hill

Critics of Brown's appointment at Powerus may view the involvement of the Trump family as a potential conflict of interest, given their financial stake in the company. Additionally, some may question the implications of a former high-ranking military official transitioning to a role in a private defense contractor, particularly one with ties to a former president.

The Hill

• “ “Throughout my career, I’ve seen how the pace of technological change determines who leads and who falls behind.” — Ret. Gen. CQ Brown Jr.

The Hill

• “Powerus is doing exactly that. I’m joining because accelerating change to advance American autonomous systems isn’t optional; it’s a must.” — Ret. Gen. CQ Brown Jr.

The Hill

• “means that the operational realities of the battlefield and the strategic vision of U.S. defense leadership are now embedded in everything we build.” — Brett Velicovich, Co-founder of Powerus.

The Hill

As Powerus continues its merger and integrates Brown into its leadership, the company is expected to pursue contracts with the Pentagon, focusing on innovative defense technologies. The implications of Brown's role and the company's direction will be closely monitored by industry analysts and military officials alike.

The Hill