Persistent Systems Makes Their Mark on the Inc. 5000 List
Persistent Systems, a prominent player in the defense technology sector, has celebrated a significant milestone by being included in the prestigious Inc. 5000 list, which features the fastest-growing private companies in the United States. This recognition, announced on August 12, 2025, marks the first time Persistent Systems has made it onto this esteemed roster, ranking at 2694 overall and securing an impressive ninth position in the technology hardware category.
Founded in 2007 by Dr. Herbert Rubens and Dr. David Holmer after earning their PhDs from The Johns Hopkins University, Persistent Systems has always aimed to innovate military communications. The company’s headquarters is situated in New York City, a testament to its belief in the idea that their technology could succeed anywhere if it could thrive in such a competitive environment.
Under the leadership of Dr. Rubens, Persistent Systems developed a mobile networking solutions platform tailored for military, first responder, and governmental applications. A key offering from the company is its Wave Relay® technology, which enables real-time data communication among warfighters, ensuring they maintain situational awareness, access critical information, and make informed decisions on the battlefield.
Dr. Rubens expressed pride in this recognition stating, "Inclusion in this prestigious list is a result of our team's relentless pursuit to deliver advanced capabilities to our American warfighters and coalition partners. We strive each day to provide network technology that keeps them safe and provides them with critical information."
Today, Persistent Systems boasts a workforce exceeding 400 employees, with multiple offices across the United States, from New York to Montana. The company's successful deployment of mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) has significantly enhanced operational capabilities for military operations both in the U.S. and globally. Their technology has been crucial in providing users with seamless access to data, audio, and video streams in real-time, effectively improving coordination and mission effectiveness.
Despite grappling with prevailing challenges, such as economic fluctuations and labor market uncertainties, Persistent Systems has showcased remarkable growth. The company, along with fellow honorees, achieved a median three-year revenue growth rate of 1,507% and collectively contributed over 52,805 jobs to the U.S. economy.
Mike Hofman, editor-in-chief of Inc., remarked, "These businesses have thrived amid rising costs, shifting global dynamics, and constant change. They didn't just weather the storm—they grew through it, and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy."
This success reaffirms Persistent Systems’ commitment to fostering a strong organizational culture and a clear vision focused on enhancing connectivity and mission success. As Dr. Rubens noted, "The culture we've built at Persistent has been the key to our continued growth. We believe that connectivity drives mission success for our users, which motivates us to continuously improve."
Persistent Systems is not only earning accolades on a national scale but is also securing its position as a leading innovator in defense technology, striving to make a lasting impact on the industry and the safety of those who protect us.
For a complete list of this year’s honorees, visit
www.inc.com/inc5000.