Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt Launches AI Drone Company to Aid Ukraine in Conflict with Russia
August 18, 2024
Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, has launched a new drone company called White Stork, which aims to assist Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Through the use of artificial intelligence (AI), Schmidt intends to help Ukraine combat Russian forces more effectively.
White Stork's mission includes developing sophisticated AI robots and lowering military operation costs, which Schmidt believes could reduce the need for traditional ground battles.
The company aims to create complex AI robots that could potentially eliminate the necessity for conventional warfare tactics involving tanks and artillery.
White Stork is focused on mass-producing drones equipped with AI technology that can identify targets autonomously.
To advance these goals, Schmidt is collaborating with Sebastian Thrun, CEO of Udacity, to develop cutting-edge robotic systems for modern warfare.
During a recent lecture at Stanford University, Schmidt expressed his outrage over the destruction of civilian areas by Russian forces, which has fueled his initiative.
His frustration over the targeting of apartment buildings and civilian infrastructure has been a significant motivator for his work with White Stork.
Schmidt indicated that, with government support, the drones developed by White Stork could be deployed directly in Ukraine to aid in the conflict.
In discussing his efforts, Schmidt humorously referred to himself as a 'licensed arms dealer,' highlighting the serious nature of his work in providing advanced AI technologies for warfare.
While sharing his vision, Schmidt jokingly advised others to pursue careers in AI rather than following a path similar to his own.
The Stanford lecture where Schmidt outlined these plans gained significant attention but has since been removed from YouTube.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Insider • Aug 17, 2024
Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt says the Ukraine War turned him into an arms dealer