Unusual Machines, Inc. (UMAC) announced the completion of its acquisition of DroneNX LLC, operating as Upgrade Energy, on October 19, 2026. The transaction involves upfront cash and stock payments, plus a significant performance-based earn-out. As part of the acquisition, Upgrade Energy's founder, Matthew Barnard, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the newly acquired subsidiary and entered into a two-year employment agreement.
Key Details
- Transaction Value: The total aggregate merger consideration is valued at up to $52 million.
- Upfront Consideration: At closing, UMAC paid $1 million in cash and issued 1,792,012 shares of common stock valued at approximately $25 million.
- Earn-Out Payment: A potential post-closing earn-out payment of up to $26 million in cash is payable if the acquired entity's revenue exceeds $10 million during one of two 12-month post-closing periods.
- Management & Employment: Matthew Barnard was appointed CEO of the subsidiary, Upgrade Energy LLC, with an employment agreement for an initial two-year term and an annual base salary of $300,000.