Ukraine deploys new Zmiy Droid 12.7 robotic system to frontlines

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has officially approved the deployment of the Zmiy Droid 12.7, a domestically produced ground robotic complex, within the Armed Forces.

According to the ministry, the system is capable of performing combat and reconnaissance tasks under challenging frontline conditions, Caliber.Az reports.

The Zmiy Droid 12.7 is designed for a wide range of military operations in active combat zones, from reconnaissance to providing fire support for units. The robotic platform is highly maneuverable, able to navigate difficult terrain and overcome obstacles such as sand, snow, and shallow water, making it suitable for diverse climatic and landscape conditions.

Approval for operational use indicates that the Zmiy Droid 12.7 meets the standards of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and can be integrated into combat units to perform real-world missions on the front lines.

In recent years, Ukraine has been actively expanding its fleet of ground-based robotic systems, relying primarily on domestic developments. Such systems reduce personnel losses, enhance the effectiveness of reconnaissance and fire support, and align with modern warfare technologies.

Last year alone, the Ministry of Defence approved over 1,300 new models of domestically produced weapons and military equipment for use — approximately 25% more than the previous year. Ukrainian Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal emphasized that 76% of weapons needed at the front are purchased centrally from Ukrainian manufacturers, while Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko noted that over half of the weapons currently in service with the Armed Forces are produced domestically.

Highlighting ongoing modernization, Colonel Andrii Zhuravlov, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Rocket Forces and Artillery Command, stated that the military will soon receive new equipment, including modern unmanned systems and artillery. Among the promising developments are the 155-mm Marta towed gun with a 39-caliber barrel and a 105-mm towed artillery system, both currently undergoing testing.

Defence Minister Shmyhal previously reported that since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukrainian arms production has increased 35-fold, with plans to continue scaling domestic production to meet frontline needs.

By Vafa Guliyeva