Ukrainian forces have demonstrated the capabilities of the PROTECTOR, the country’s largest ground robotic complex developed by “Ukrainian Armored Vehicles,” according to footage released by Army TV.
The unmanned ground vehicle operates as a full-sized automobile without steering wheel, pedals, or driver, controlled remotely by an operator. Built on an off-road vehicle platform, the system can transport cargo up to 700 kilograms and tow trailers.
Anastasia Oleshchuk, a specialist in unmanned systems development projects, described an experiment where PROTECTOR successfully pulled a trailer carrying a three-ton vehicle. “The complex handled this task perfectly,” Oleshchuk said.
The cargo compartment can simultaneously accommodate three wounded soldiers in lying position. Future modifications may include combat modules such as machine guns or grenade launchers.
The system features three communication types and two antennas. “Currently, the left one is a mockup, but we can install an antenna for other technologies in the future,” Oleshchuk explained. “We’ve planned one option for countering electronic warfare – switching between our three communication systems, from one to another, thus resisting EW.”
The right antenna connects to the control panel, providing communication range of 7 kilometers on average terrain and up to 12 kilometers on open ground. The control panel mirrors conventional vehicle controls, and the system includes a Starlink antenna as an additional communication method.
PROTECTOR operates on a 3-liter diesel engine producing 190 horsepower, delivering a range of 400-500 kilometers – significantly exceeding other developments. Maximum speed reaches 45 kilometers per hour.
A red emergency button on the chassis allows instant disconnection of all drone electrical systems. Day and night cameras are installed on the vehicle.
Serial production has begun, with deployment to frontline forces expected soon, according to Army TV reports.
The Ministry of Defense previously codified PROTECTOR and approved it for use by the Defense Forces. The system received RunFlat technology wheels, enabling continued movement after damage.