The Ukrainian government has unveiled plans to procure “tens of thousands” of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) next year to support military units on the frontline.
Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s deputy prime minister for innovation, told Reuters that these “buggy-like” vehicles would help spare troops from operating in areas with heavy Russian shelling and drones.
The robotic platforms could be used for various tasks, including delivering ammunition and supplies, conducting autonomous combat missions, or evacuating wounded soldiers from the frontlines.
While Fedorov did not specify the types of UGVs to be purchased, he confirmed that procurement has already begun.
“This year, we purchased several thousand ground platforms, and next year, I believe, we need tens of thousands,” he stated.
Ukraine has started mass production of robots. @Brave1 tested 50+ various ground systems. In a few months, hundreds of them will be procured by @UNITED24 and will fight on the battlefield, saving the lives of 🇺🇦 defenders. pic.twitter.com/QrKWrQU9eg
— Alex Bornyakov (@abornyakov) March 12, 2024
Evolving Battlefield
Throughout the war, both Ukraine and Russia have adopted advanced tactics to outmaneuver one another.
However, despite Moscow’s recent gains, the outcome of the conflict is still uncertain.
Ukraine has increasingly relied on long-range attack drones to penetrate deep into enemy territory, while Russia is leveraging its vast arsenal and troop strength.
In May, Ukraine also announced plans to expedite the deployment of military robotic platforms to reduce risks to human lives.
Since then, UGVs have become a common sight along the frontlines and in Russia’s Kursk region, where Ukrainian troops carried out a surprise incursion in August.
Ukraine has also set up training centers to familiarize soldiers with the use of these autonomous platforms.
