Fedorov's New Venture
Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov is launching a defense technology company that will focus on developing technologies to strengthen Ukraine and support its partners, according to a statement from Fedorov. The announcement comes months after his dismissal from the defense ministry in July.
Alex Karp, CEO of the American data and AI company Palantir, is set to be the company's first lead investor, as confirmed by Fedorov's press office. The size of the investment has not been disclosed.
In a video posted by Fedorov on X, Karp said the company could bring Ukraine's knowledge and experience of warfare "as a product to allied countries." He added: "You and your colleagues are launching a company that I think will be defining for the world."
Background and Goals
Fedorov previously served as Ukraine's minister for digital transformation before becoming defense minister in January. In his statement, Fedorov said Ukraine would be the company's priority. "During the full-scale war, our team gained unique experience working with defense technologies in Ukraine and seeing firsthand how technology is transforming modern warfare," he said.
The company will seek to apply lessons learned during the war to technologies that could be used both by Ukraine and its allies, according to Fedorov.
While details about the venture—including its name, the technologies it plans to develop, and the extent of Karp's involvement—remain undisclosed, Fedorov's press office said they plan to announce the next stages of cooperation with Palantir gradually. Palantir did not immediately respond to a request for comment, as reported by CNBC.
Context and Reactions
Fedorov's departure from the defense ministry in July came as a shock to Ukrainian service members and industry figures, according to reports from com. He had been known for driving rapid innovation in battlefield technology, particularly drones, and his push for radical changes within the armed forces created friction with senior military leaders.
After his dismissal, Fedorov spoke critically about Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, accusing him of blocking initiatives. In public statements following Fedorov's departure, Syrskyi thanked him for his work and expressed hope for his continued success.