Ukraine showcases ground robots set to replace soldiers in new era of warfare

Ground-based robotic systems used daily by a combat unit of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) are being presented as evidence of a shift toward a new technological era of warfare, where robots could increasingly replace soldiers on the battlefield.

Ukrainian military personnel said the robotic platforms are entirely domestically developed and have already been deployed repeatedly in real combat conditions, Caliber.Az reports per Ukrainian news portal.

The robots are capable of carrying out logistical missions, delivering supplies to the front line, and engaging enemy forces using mounted machine guns.

“You are witnessing the beginning of a new era of war, even though two years ago someone somewhere may have only been thinking that it was necessary to start moving in this direction. These are not just unmanned machines driving around. This is their experience, sealed with the lives and blood of their soldiers,” said Oleksandr, a representative of the “Legit” systems, adding that every one of these machines carries the experience and sacrifice of their soldiers.

According to the report, ground-based robotic systems were first deployed in the war against Russia about a year and a half ago. During that period, a single GUR unit used them to transport around nine tons of various cargo, covering a total distance of approximately 1,275 kilometres.

The robots can operate both day and night, although their effectiveness depends on weather conditions, terrain, and enemy countermeasures. As a result, robotic units often work in coordination with FPV drone operators. The systems can be controlled remotely from anywhere in the world, provided there is a stable internet connection. According to the military, operator training takes about four hours.

The cost of one robot ranges from 400,000 hryvnias (about $9,400) to several million hryvnias, depending on equipment and additional modules. GUR officials say that in the near future, such robotic systems could replace dozens of soldiers on the battlefield.

By Jeyhun Aghazada