Ukraine has conducted a large-scale operation to test the performance of 100 domestically developed unmanned ground vehicles across various environments.
Ukrainian Minister of Digital Transformation, Mykhailo Fedorov, revealed that the tests evaluated systems designed for medical evacuation, logistics, strike operations, mine-laying, and kamikaze missions.
The trials were conducted under the guidance of Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Colonel Andrii Lebedenko, on challenging terrains such as ramps, sand, and water-filled trenches.
The operation also tested communication stability in electronic warfare scenarios.
“Demonstration in conditions close to combat is a mandatory stage in the development life,” Fedorov explained, adding that testing helps identify and resolve potential issues before systems are deployed in combat.
Latest Ukrainian-Made Ground Systems
Earlier this month, Fedorov announced the approval of four multifunctional ground robotic systems — “Tanchik,” “Targan 2K,” “Targan 200,” and “Bureviy” — for use by Ukraine’s Armed Forces.
These systems are designed to perform a wide range of missions, including reconnaissance, sabotage, evacuation, attack, and logistics.
Trials for upcoming systems take place under the framework of Kyiv’s “Brave1” defense innovation initiative, launched in 2023 to support domestic manufacturers. The program provides grants to test technological readiness and scale up local production.
By May, the platform had awarded 189 grants, amounting to $3.3 million in funding.
German Support for Ukraine
In addition to bolstering local production, Ukraine continues to receive international support.
German Aid to Ukraine recently announced funding for 30 Gereon RCS unmanned ground platforms, manufactured by ARX Robotics.
The delivery is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Furthermore, ARX Robotics plans to establish a technology and maintenance center in Ukraine by early 2025.
The initiative aims to speed up system adaptation and operational support while collaborating with local engineers and startups.
