Space-Eyes, a Miami-based defense technology company backed by Eric Trump, is going public through a $638 million SPAC merger, giving investors a new way to bet on AI-powered space-based intelligence.

The company agreed to merge with McKinley Acquisition Corp in a deal that values Space-Eyes at a pro-forma equity value of $638 million and is expected to provide up to $251.7 million in gross proceeds. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, with the combined company set to trade on a U.S. exchange.

Space-Eyes develops AI-powered defense technology that delivers real-time geospatial intelligence — analyzing satellite imagery to help public-sector and defense customers monitor activity on the ground from orbit. The company has positioned itself at the intersection of two of the most active areas of defense investment: commercial satellite constellations and AI-driven image analysis.

Eric Trump, the son of former U.S. President Donald Trump, is an investor and advisor to the company, which has raised his profile in defense-tech circles. The SPAC route — once tarnished during the 2021 boom-and-bust — has staged a modest comeback in 2026 as defense and space startups seek faster paths to public markets.

Neither Space-Eyes nor McKinley Acquisition Corp immediately commented beyond the official announcement. The deal still requires approval from McKinley shareholders and customary regulatory clearances.

Sources