In a groundbreaking operation, a Ukrainian combat drone unit successfully deployed a remotely-controlled ground robotic platform equipped with a machine gun to destroy enemy positions for the first time in history, according to the Army of Drones Telegram channel.
Significant innovations in drone warfare mark the Russo-Ukrainian war. Unmanned vehicles, both large and small and operating across air, land, and sea, are central to the conflict, with technology rapidly evolving to meet the demands of the war.
The Kara Nebesna (Heavenly Punishment) strike drone unit of the National Guard’s 4th Brigade “Rubizh” reportedly used aerial drones to locate targets then a ground drone equipped with a machine gun turret was used to strike the Russian positions.
The Ukrainian Army is testing the Ironclad unmanned combat robot in live operations. The versatile robotic platform assists forces by storming positions, recon, and fire support at 20km/h speed. It is equipped with thermal camera, turret, and armor.https://t.co/bQdLxtCvnd
— Euromaidan Press (@EuromaidanPress) September 22, 2023
This unprecedented method of coordination between the air and ground drone crews during an operation reportedly led to the elimination of Russian personnel.
“Recently, for the first time in history, there was an operation in which the BpAK (uncrewed aerial systems, – Ed.) fighters adjusted [the fire of] an unmanned ground drone with a turret from the sky as it was destroying Russian personnel. This has never happened before in the history of military affairs – it’s extremely cool,” said Andrii Otchenash, the Kara Nebesna commander.
The source did not share any footage or additional details about the engagement, including the specific frontline sector where it occurred.
Both Ukrainian and Russian forces not only employ and test new experimental types of uncrewed vehicles in a combat environment, but also develop new drone warfare tactics and new ways to use drones.
For example, drone operators have innovated a quadcopter drone ramming tactic to disable enemy drones in midair.
Drone-on-drone warfare
A Ukrainian drone operator successfully downed two Russian quadcopters by ramming into them from above.
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Ground drones are used to lay mines, evacuate the wounded, and act as movable machine-gun nests.
Drone company of ????????63 brigade manages not only strike drones but also this mining land drones. To boost their efficiency, mobility is crucial. Let's contribute to acquiring Nissan X-Trail SUV!
We're only €655 away from our $4900 goal. Who can chip in?https://t.co/zz8e0JVdEU pic.twitter.com/SAISzvuogp
— Euromaidan Press (@EuromaidanPress) January 12, 2024
During his press conference on 19 December, President Zelenskyy promised that Ukraine would manufacture one million drones in 2024. However, Zelenskyy was referring specifically to FPV drones, and the government says the number will be even higher.
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