The Third Army Corps deployed the DevDroid TW 12.7, an unmanned ground vehicle armed with a .50-calibre machine gun, to hold off Russian advances for 45 days. This remote-controlled vehicle, capable of traversing rugged terrain, was operated from up to 15 miles away and provided relentless firepower, deterring enemy attacks without endangering soldiers. The UGV was crucial in the fight, with Russia unable to detect its presence, highlighting the increasing role of unmanned systems in modern warfare. The NC-13 Strike Company, specializing in UGVs, is expanding its deployment of these systems in both defensive and offensive operations, with other drone versions, including those with grenade launchers, recently approved for frontline use.
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The Uran-9 unmanned combat ground vehicle, touted as a “robot tank” by Russia’s defense industry, has failed to live up to expectations, despite being accepted into service in 2019. Trials in Syria revealed significant shortcomings, including loss of control, limited range, and unreliable sensors. The vehicle, equipped with a 30 mm cannon, 7.62 mm coax, ATGM, and rockets, has not seen verified combat use in Ukraine and has not secured any significant export contracts. Ultimately, the Uran-9 represents a case of over-promise and under-delivery, highlighting the limits of Russia’s ground-combat robotics.
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The Ukrainian Defense Ministry recently approved the Termit, a domestically-produced unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), for front-line deployment. This tracked robot, an advanced iteration of existing models, boasts improved mobility, modularity, and a 300-kilogram payload capacity, enabling diverse mission profiles. Its enhanced capabilities allow for extended operational durations and various applications including combat, medical evacuation, and equipment transport. The Termit’s approval underscores Ukraine’s commitment to developing unmanned systems to reduce soldier risk and bolster defense capabilities amidst ongoing conflict.
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John Q. Hosedrinker