Innovative American defense technology firm Anduril Industries, recently valued at 61 billion dollars following a funding round, is engaging with senior Israeli officials to set up a local presence focused on sales to the Ministry of Defense and research and development for its worldwide products, according to reports from Globes. The firm, led by entrepreneur Palmer Luckey, is proceeding with caution, performing market analysis and considering options for establishment through purchases or natural growth.

Several candidates, including veterans from security forces, have been shortlisted to lead the company's operations in Israel, and Anduril is nearing completion of selecting one individual for the role.

Yitz Applbaum, chairman of the Kinetica defense-tech fund and familiar with several company executives, noted that Anduril performs thorough market research across countries and enters markets deliberately. The firm was constructed unconventionally through both organic means and acquisitions, recognizing potential for similar expansion in Israel.

Anduril originated with a command and control system for the US-Mexico border before broadening into diverse security offerings such as drones, interceptors, cruise missiles, UAVs, and fighter jets. Following the successful SpaceX IPO, the company is preparing its own public offering, with international growth supporting ambitions for a valuation in the hundreds of billions of dollars.

Anduril has completed one acquisition outside the US, involving an edge computing and tactical communications startup in Ireland. In November, the firm partnered with UAE-based EDGE Group on a joint venture to produce tail-sitting VTOL drones featuring hybrid-electric propulsion, known as Omen.

This collaboration aims to speed development and manufacturing of advanced unmanned platforms for military and civilian uses, including a dedicated facility in the UAE for production, sales, and ongoing global support.

Most acquisitions remain domestic and undisclosed in value, covering areas like satellite intelligence, radar systems, drone and autonomous aircraft firms, UAV manufacturers, infrared sensors, and rocket engine and solid fuel producers.

The investor roster exceeds 200 venture capital funds and private backers, with leading participants including Andreessen Horowitz, General Catalyst, and Altimeter Capital.