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Ukraine Deploys Ex-Google CEO–Backed AI Hornet Drones Against Russian Logistics
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Ukrainian National Guard’s 1st Corps “Azov” has been conducting strikes against Russian logistics in and around occupied Donetsk using AI-enabled Hornet attack drones, capable of operating far beyond the front line.
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According to German outlet BILD on April 18, citing footage and information attributed to Azov, the drones have been used to hit Russian military vehicles up to 65 kilometers inside Russian-controlled territory. German journalist Julian Röpcke also reported on the use of these systems, highlighting their role in disrupting supply routes.
The published video material shows drone strikes on Russian military trucks, including Kamaz and Ural platforms, operating along key logistical routes near Donetsk. The footage indicates that the drones can distinguish between targets, marking them through a multi-stage identification system before operator confirmation and engagement.
According to BILD, the Hornet drones use artificial intelligence to identify, classify, and prioritize targets. Objects are initially highlighted automatically, with selected targets then approved by an operator before the drone proceeds with the strike. The system reportedly allows for precision targeting while maintaining control via Starlink satellite communication.
Technical specifications remain limited. However, according to BILD, citing an unnamed source, the drone may have a range of up to 100 kilometers and carry a warhead weighing approximately five kilograms. The same source indicated that the system is significantly cheaper than comparable Western platforms, with an estimated cost below €5,000.
The Hornet drone is reportedly developed by the US-based company Swift Beat, owned by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, as part of the broader “Project Eagle” initiative. According to BILD, the project focuses on building autonomous and AI-driven drone systems for modern warfare, involving engineers with backgrounds in major technology and aerospace firms.
Earlier, Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense reported that British-made Malloy T-150 heavy-lift drones have been used not only for frontline resupply but also in combat operations, including delivering explosives to damage a key bridge used by Russian forces in the Kherson region.
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