Palantir Technologies CEO Alex Karp will serve as the lead investor in a new defense technology startup founded by Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s former defense minister, according to a statement from Fedorov’s press office. The venture, which has not yet been publicly named, aims to apply Ukraine’s wartime technological expertise to defense products for Kyiv and its allies, though specific technologies and investment amounts remain undisclosed.
In a video shared on social media, Karp praised the initiative, stating that Fedorov and his team were launching a company that could be "defining for the world" by commercializing Ukraine’s battlefield innovations. "You and your colleagues are launching a company that I think will be defining for the world," Karp said. "Bringing your knowledge and acumen about the art of war as a product to allied countries."
Fedorov’s new venture follows his removal from Ukraine’s defense ministry in July as part of a broader government reshuffle by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Fedorov, who previously served as Ukraine’s minister of digital transformation, had been a prominent advocate for integrating technology into military operations, including the deployment of drones and AI-driven battlefield software. His ouster sparked protests in Ukraine, with critics citing friction between his reformist approach and senior military leadership.
The new company will prioritize Ukraine as its initial focus, according to Fedorov, who emphasized the unique insights gained from the country’s ongoing war with Russia. "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 stated. While further details about the venture’s structure and products are expected to be announced gradually, Karp’s involvement signals strong backing from a major player in defense and AI technology.
Palantir, an American company specializing in data analytics and operational intelligence, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The venture aligns with broader trends in Ukraine’s military strategy, where drones, AI, and software have played increasingly critical roles in combat operations against Russian forces.
Fedorov, 35, was defense minister for just six months before his dismissal. His tenure coincided with notable advancements in Ukraine’s drone warfare capabilities, including mid-range drone strikes that targeted Russian logistics and deep-strike campaigns against military infrastructure inside Russia. His departure was framed by Zelenskyy as part of a strategic reshuffle, though Fedorov later described significant resistance from military leaders to his proposed reforms.
The startup’s formation underscores the ongoing intersection of Ukraine’s wartime experience and global defense innovation, with Karp’s investment highlighting international interest in leveraging Kyiv’s expertise.