Ukraine is accelerating the integration of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), aiming to field at least 50,000 systems this year as part of a broader shift toward unmanned warfare.
During a speech, Volodymyr Zelensky described UGVs as a critical capability, with expanding roles in frontline logistics, casualty evacuation, and combat support.
“This is the next major step in the defense of our state, one that is truly impacting the situation following the transition to drones,” he stated.
“It is already impossible to imagine defense without drones, and the same applies to UGVs.”
Production is set to more than double last year’s levels, with further increases required to meet operational demand and reduce personnel risks.
Beyond ground robots, Zelensky pointed to efforts to strengthen air and missile defense, noting that global conflicts are affecting the supply of interceptor missiles.
He called for partners to deliver on existing commitments, while Kyiv explores alternatives, including the long-term goal of developing its own ballistic missile defense capability.
Ukraine is also expanding domestic defense production, including large-scale drone manufacturing, artillery, and munitions, while working with partners to limit Russia’s access to critical components for weapons production.
Focus on UGVs
The war-torn country is expanding the use of UGVs across multiple operational areas.
In February, Kyiv enabled frontline units to procure ground robots directly through the DOT-Chain Defence digital platform, allowing independent ordering for tasks such as evacuation, logistics, and ammunition delivery.
Earlier this year, Ukraine approved new systems for operational use, including the domestically developed Zmiy Droid 12.7 NRK, designed for reconnaissance and strike missions and equipped with a 12.7 mm machine gun.
The platform is built to operate across varied terrain, including sand, snow, and shallow water.
Moreover, UGVs are also being used to recover damaged equipment.
Last year, footage from the 93rd Separate Mechanized Brigade showed tracked robots retrieving disabled drones and other systems from the battlefield under fire.
