Billionaire technology expert Eric Schmidt has been discreetly developing a new drone startup in the United States and Ukraine through a network of LLCs, concealing its activities and team members. Initially revealed by Forbes recently, the initiative, named White Stork after Ukraine’s national bird and revered totem, has Schmidt serving as a defense technology advisor and financial supporter in the country.
Officially established in August of the previous year, White Stork is focused on creating an AI-powered drone capable of visual targeting and operating in GPS-jammed environments. While still in stealth mode, the startup has garnered attention within the drone community, with sources indicating Schmidt’s involvement in exploring manufacturing facilities and collaborating with various startups as a significant investor in military technology.
Previously operating under the name Swift Beat Holdings, White Stork transitioned to White Stork Group LLC as per Delaware business records. Volya Robotics OÜ, a holding company for Swift Beat, identifies the former Google CEO as its sole beneficial owner. The establishment of Volya Robotics OÜ in Estonia, with connections to Schmidt’s family office Hillspire, further solidifies the intricate web of entities involved in the drone venture.
Despite not being publicly launched, indications such as website registrations and business filings suggest an evolving ecosystem around White Stork. Schmidt’s advocacy for drone technology in countering Russian forces following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine has been notable, emphasizing the strategic importance of drones in modern warfare.
Schmidt’s engagement with Ukrainian officials and tech leaders underscores his commitment to advancing military capabilities in the region. Collaborating with figures like Sebastian Thrun and Mark Stonich, Schmidt’s initiatives aim to bolster Ukraine’s defense technology landscape amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges.
Transitioning from his role at Google to a more security-focused agenda, Schmidt’s involvement in national security commissions and defense innovation boards underscores his dedication to leveraging technology for military applications. His recent endeavors in Ukraine, including investments in defense tech accelerators and partnerships with key government figures, highlight a strategic shift towards bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities through technological innovation.
