Defense technology firms Palantir and anduril are reportedly teaming up with other tech groups to pursue arms orders from the Pentagon. With U.S. arms orders totaling $850 billion, the stakes are undeniably high.

Unconventional Names, Unconventional Power

What sets these companies apart, besides their ambition, are their names. Palantir, specializing in big data analysis, and Anduril, known for its drone defense systems integrated with advanced AI, both draw inspiration from the works of J.R.R. Tolkien.

These are not your typical garage startups. Palantir’s shares have surged by 300% in the past year, reaching a market capitalization of $169 billion, rivaling established defense giants like Lockheed Martin.

Anduril’s Anticipated IPO

Anduril, combining drone defense systems with OpenAI’s artificial intelligence models, is poised to enter the stock exchange with what is expected to be one of the year’s largest initial public offerings (IPOs).

The Tolkien Connection

Why name a company specializing in data analysis after some Tolkien’s crystal ball or a defense firm after some Tolkien’s sword? the answer lies with the founders.

Years ago, such names might have been relegated to the realm of Dungeons & Dragons characters. Today, they represent companies with valuations exceeding the GDP of entire countries. This reflects a shift in the modern world, where unconventional ideas and inspirations can drive critically important innovation and success.

Narya Capital and the Rings of Power

The Tolkien connection doesn’t end there. Narya Capital, associated with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, also draws its name from Tolkien’s lore. Narya was one of the three Elven rings of power, specifically the one worn by Gandalf.

A Changing Landscape

The rise of companies named after elements from fantasy literature signals a broader trend. While Elon Musk may no longer be in the Oval Office, the influence of visionary, and sometimes unconventional, thinking persists.