In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, a new kind of warfare is emerging, one that is characterized by the use of cutting-edge technology and innovative tactics. At the forefront of this transformation is the utilization of land robots, which have become a crucial part of Ukraine's military strategy. These robots, designed to mimic the capabilities of human soldiers, are changing the very nature of combat, making it more automated and less dependent on human life.
One of the key players in this technological revolution is Victor Pavlov, a lieutenant in Ukraine's 3rd Army Corps. Pavlov showcases the versatility of these land robots, which come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to serve a specific purpose. From caterpillar-tracked vehicles that resemble milk floats to wheeled drones with antennas and anti-tank mine carriers, these robots are becoming an integral part of the Ukrainian military's arsenal.
The use of these robots has grown exponentially since spring 2024, marking a significant shift in warfare. Pavlov emphasizes that modern warfare is no longer about expensive tanks but rather about the use of cheap and expendable drones that can deliver precise and deadly attacks. This shift has been further propelled by Ukraine's expertise in drone technology, which has now become highly sought after, especially in the context of the US-Israeli war against Iran.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy's recent signing of 10-year defense agreements with several Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, highlights the global recognition of Ukraine's drone capabilities. These agreements aim to provide the Gulf states with low-cost Ukrainian interceptors capable of shooting down long-range kamikaze drones, which are used by both Tehran and Moscow. This development has transformed Kyiv into a hub for the development and production of modern unmanned weapons, creating a unique ecosystem where engineers and frontline soldiers collaborate to design and improve these technologies.
Land robots now account for 90% of Ukrainian army logistics, according to Pavlov. They are used to navigate the treacherous terrain, often hindered by enemy drones. In January, Ukraine's armed forces conducted a record 7,000 operations using ground vehicles, showcasing the efficiency and effectiveness of this technology. These robots are equipped with remote control machine guns and grenade launchers, and have even been used to defend positions for extended periods, such as the DevDroid TW 12.7, which held a position for 45 days.
One of the most striking examples of the impact of these robots is the kamikaze robot that carried 200 kg of explosives 12 miles to a school building used by Russian troops, blowing it up. Bambi, a drone operator, describes the situation as a scene from the Terminator, where land robots are unstoppable and require a different approach to combat. He highlights the psychological aspect of this technology, where shooting a robot doesn't evoke the same emotional response as shooting a human.
Beyond combat, land robots are also used for logistics, delivering food, ammunition, and materials like logs for constructing underground shelters. They can evacuate up to three wounded soldiers from the frontline, operating for eight hours at a time. These robots are smaller and less visible than armored vehicles, making them less susceptible to detection and destruction by Russian spy drones.
The development and deployment of these robots have also led to significant engineering advancements. The latest models can mine and de-mine, lay barbed wire, and tow and retrieve damaged vehicles. However, this technology comes at a cost, as Pavlov mentions that his company loses around three robots a day to Russian aerial attacks, resulting in an attrition rate of 25%. Despite this, he believes it's a small price to pay when considering the lives saved.
Ukraine's defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, praises the rapid expansion of remote operations, noting that casualty evacuation using ground robotic systems has become routine. He emphasizes the ability of robots to enter high-risk areas, delivering ammunition, sustaining logistics, and evacuating the wounded, all while minimizing the risk to human personnel.
The impact of these robots is further evidenced by the first-ever surrender of Russian soldiers to an armed ground robot. The soldiers, one covered in blood, emerged from a wrecked building, a position that had previously come under sustained Ukrainian fire. This incident highlights the effectiveness of robotic systems in retaking areas and the changing dynamics of warfare.
The 3rd Army Corps, based in northeastern Ukraine, has been at the forefront of developing unmanned ground systems. Their KillHouse academy trains UGV pilots, simulating various terrains and scenarios. Oleksandr, an instructor, notes that robots are now performing tasks that were once carried out by humans, and that former gamers, with their quick adaptation to technology, are proving to be more effective than ordinary servicemen.
Despite Ukraine's advancements, Russia is not far behind in developing its own ground systems, including the electric vehicle 'Courier'. However, Pavlov believes that Ukraine currently has the upper hand in ground robot technology and aims to scale up its production. The conflict's outcome, according to Andriy Biletsky, the 3rd Corps' commander, will be determined by new tactical approaches, with ground-based robotic systems set to play a pivotal role in logistics and combat, potentially replacing a significant portion of soldiers.
