Direct Kinetic Solutions, Everlasting Power: Company Profile

Background

Company Overview

Direct Kinetic Solutions (DKS) is a privately held company founded in 2019 and headquartered in El Paso, Texas. The company specializes in developing, manufacturing, and selling Persistent Power Sources (PPS) that harness the high energy density of beta-emitting isotopes to provide continuous, long-lasting power solutions. These devices are designed to directly power electronic devices, charge chemical batteries, or complement other power sources such as solar energy.

Mission and Vision

DKS envisions becoming the power solution for future generations by revolutionizing compact power and electronic devices. The company's mission is to provide continuous, reliable, and predictable power sources that operate regardless of environmental conditions, thereby extending the functional and shelf life of electronic devices.

Industry Significance

In an era where electronic devices are integral to various sectors, including defense, space exploration, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications, DKS's technology addresses the critical need for reliable and long-lasting power solutions. By moving beyond traditional lithium-ion batteries, DKS offers a unique solution that enhances operational efficiency and reduces maintenance costs across diverse industries.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Innovation in Power Solutions: Develop and commercialize Persistent Power Sources that provide continuous energy, thereby reducing reliance on conventional batteries.

Market Expansion: Target applications in defense, space, IoT sensors, asset tracking, and other sectors requiring long-term, maintenance-free power solutions.

Areas of Specialization

Radioisotopic Power Sources: Utilize beta-emitting isotopes to generate energy, offering a compact and efficient power solution.

Advanced Manufacturing: Develop automated systems for the production of Persistent Power Sources, ensuring scalability and quality.

Key Technologies Utilized

Beta-Emitting Isotopes: Leverage the high energy density of these isotopes to produce continuous power.

Semiconductor Integration: Integrate isotopic power sources onto semiconductor devices to create compact power solutions.

Primary Markets Targeted

Defense: Enhance mission-critical sensors and equipment with long-lasting power solutions.

Space Exploration: Provide reliable power for CubeSats and other space-based applications.

IoT and Asset Tracking: Offer maintenance-free power for IoT sensors and asset tracking devices.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As of February 2026, DKS has secured over $3 million in funding through various grants and investments.

Recent Funding Rounds

August 2025: Received a grant from the National Science Foundation.

February 2024: Completed a seed round with investments from AFWERX, Capital Factory, and Startupbootcamp Australia.

Notable Investors

National Science Foundation: Provided a grant in August 2025.

AFWERX: Invested in the February 2024 seed round.

Capital Factory: Participated in the February 2024 seed round.

Startupbootcamp Australia: Invested in the February 2024 seed round.

Utilization of Capital

The funds are primarily allocated towards research and development, scaling manufacturing capabilities, and expanding market reach to meet the growing demand for Persistent Power Sources.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Persistent Power Sources for Defense Applications: Developing power solutions to extend the operational life of military sensors and equipment.

Radioisotopic Power Sources for Space Missions: Creating compact power solutions for CubeSats and other space-based technologies.

Stages of Development

Research and Development: Ongoing efforts to refine technology and develop prototypes.

Testing and Validation: Conducting rigorous testing to ensure reliability and safety standards.

Target Conditions

Harsh Environments: Ensuring power solutions operate effectively in extreme conditions, including space and deep-sea applications.

Anticipated Milestones

2026: Expected deployment of the first units for defense applications.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Persistent Power Sources (PPS): Devices that harness beta-emitting isotopes to provide continuous power.

Significant Scientific Methods

Beta-Voltaic Technology: Utilizing beta-emitting isotopes to generate electrical power through semiconductor integration.

AI-Driven Capabilities

Automated Manufacturing Systems: Implementing AI to optimize production processes and ensure quality control.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Ekhi Muniategui: Co-Founder and CEO. Experienced in the manufacturing, commercialization, and development of semiconductors and components for IoT industries.

Joanna Patsalis: Co-Founder and COO. Background in operations and strategic management within the technology sector.

David Scott: Chief Strategy Officer. Experienced entrepreneur and start-up growth expert with expertise in federal funding and DoD technology transfer.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for long-lasting, maintenance-free power solutions is expanding, driven by the increasing demand for reliable power in defense, space exploration, and IoT applications. Traditional battery manufacturers face challenges in meeting the longevity and reliability requirements of these sectors.

Competitor Analysis

Active Power, Inc.: Specializes in flywheel-based uninterruptible power supply systems, offering an alternative to traditional battery solutions.

Kinetic Traction Systems: Produces flywheel energy storage systems for electric railways and grid storage, focusing on kinetic energy storage solutions.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

DKS has engaged in partnerships with the U.S. Department of Defense, including the Air Force, to develop and deploy Persistent Power Sources for mission-critical applications.

Operational Insights

DKS differentiates itself by offering a compact, reliable, and long-lasting power solution that addresses the limitations of traditional batteries, positioning itself as a strategic partner for defense and space applications.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

2026: Deploy the first units for defense applications.

2027: Expand into space exploration and IoT markets.

Future Business Directions

Product Diversification: Develop additional power solutions for various industries.

Global Expansion: Enter international markets to meet global demand for reliable power solutions.

Opportunities for Expansion

Defense Sector: Enhance mission readiness with long-lasting power solutions.

Space Exploration: Provide reliable power for extended space missions.

IoT and Asset Tracking: Offer maintenance-free power for a wide range of IoT devices.

Competitive Advantages

DKS's proprietary technology offers a unique value proposition by providing continuous, reliable power in a compact form factor, setting it apart from traditional battery manufacturers.