AI-powered interceptor drones built by a tech company founded by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt are playing a major role in helping Ukraine shoot down Russian Shahed drones, according to a report by Ekonomichna Pravda.
Ukrainian military sources told the outlet that Schmidt’s company, Swift Beat, has provided three types of drones to Ukraine’s defense forces. Though the names of the models were withheld for security reasons, officials said the systems are responsible for downing roughly 90% of Russian Shaheds intercepted by drones.
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The drones are said to be equipped with advanced AI targeting technology and a secure communication system that has so far proven resistant to Russian electronic warfare.
“These drones are extremely accurate in identifying Russian drones in the night sky,” one anonymous source told Ekonomichna Pravda.
Close ties to Ukraine
Schmidt, who helped turn Google into one of the world’s most powerful tech companies, has become an influential figure in both Ukraine’s political and military leadership, the report says.
Earlier in July, he was seen meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky and then-Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, as Swift Beat signed a long-term strategic partnership with Ukraine.
A Ukrainian defense source said Schmidt “understands well what is happening” on the battlefield and believes that AI, drones, and autonomous systems will shape the future of warfare.
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While many in Ukraine’s defense community praise Schmidt’s contribution, others are more cautious. Some critics believe the billionaire is using Ukraine’s war as a testing ground for Swift Beat’s technology, hoping to cash in on future sales.
“He says he’s not making money on this, but we know he wants his drones battle-tested,” one industry insider reportedly told the outlet.
Some also fear that Swift Beat’s growing influence could push out local Ukrainian developers.
Still, there’s little doubt that Schmidt’s drones have become one of Ukraine’s most effective tools in the fight against Russia’s increasingly drone-heavy assault tactics. With the skies over Ukraine now a key battleground, the role of AI and autonomous systems is only expected to grow.