VC Firm Tied To Trump Jr. Leads New Defense Investment In 3D-Printed Rocket Propellant Startup

A venture fund that works with Presidentelect Donald Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr, is leading a $60 million series C investment in rocket motors and propellant startup Firehawk Aerospace, Forbes has learned. It’s the first defense tech investment for 1789 Capital, which funds companies aligned with a conservative world view. The firm invested $15 million in the deal, which is expected to close this month with additional checks from Draper Associates, Boka Capital and others. The company declined to share the valuation, though a person close to the deal said it was Firehawk CEO Will Edwards is building his company on the idea that 3D-printed propellant, pictured, can replace traditional rocket systems. 

Dallas-based Firehawk says it has developed a safer, more stable rocket propellant using 3D printers and a solid rocket motor to burn it, with the goal of replenishing a depleting U.S. arsenal. And it’s had early success securing contracts with the Pentagon and defense contractors. “There's a missile shortage in the United States,” said Omeed Malik, 1789’s president. “This is part of a defense tech investment that enhances the security and competitiveness of the United States.”

Read the rest of the article here and about Firehawk's testing presence in Midland here.