Russia's Drone War: New Uncrewed Tech Tested in Ukraine
The battlefields of Ukraine have become an unprecedented proving ground for the next generation of warfare, as both Russian and Ukrainian forces rapidly innovate and deploy an array of uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs). While Ukraine has garnered attention for its ambitious push to field thousands of “iron soldiers,” Russia is also actively engaged in its own experimental robotic campaigns, deploying unconventional and improvised systems ranging from weaponized hoverboards to automated rocket launchers.
Among Russia’s more unusual battlefield experiments are consumer-grade hoverboards repurposed into deadly, one-way explosive drones. Reports indicate that these commercially available two-wheeled devices are being fitted with anti-tank mines and deployed as kamikaze robots to target Ukrainian fortifications. This low-cost, high-impact improvisation reportedly began in 2024, with volunteer organizations supplying these converted hoverboards to Russian units for use along the extensive front lines. The simplicity and affordability of these devices highlight a trend towards accessible, rapidly deployable unmanned systems in the conflict.
Further demonstrating Russia’s evolving UGV strategy is the development of an uncrewed rocket launcher, colloquially described as a “box on wheels.” This system, a miniaturized version of the TOS-1A Solntsepyok thermobaric rocket launcher, is mounted on an unmanned ground vehicle and designed to fire disposable rocket systems akin to the Shmel grenade launcher. Developed by Moscow-based Robototechnichesky Inzhiniring, this “mini-Robo-TOS” prioritizes ease of reloading and the use of standard infantry weapons to streamline logistics. It also features an autonomous operating mode, offering resilience against electronic warfare interference by completing missions independently if communication is lost. Beyond these more novel applications, Russia’s 83rd Separate Repair and Restoration Battalion has adapted the “Termit” UGV for frontline logistics, capable of transporting a single serviceman and supplies, with potential for combat or mortar-carrying configurations. Looking ahead, Russia is reportedly poised for serial production of the “Marker” robotic complex in 2025, a more sophisticated UGV designed to carry Kornet anti-tank guided missiles and potentially deploy drone swarms, signaling a move towards more advanced robotic force multipliers.
On the Ukrainian side, the drive for robotic integration is equally intense, fueled by a pressing need to mitigate personnel shortages. Kyiv has announced ambitious plans to deploy 15,000 ground robots in 2025, with contracts for UGVs surging dramatically in early 2025. These Ukrainian “iron soldiers” are being developed for a wide array of missions, including combat roles with explosive payloads or machine guns, minelaying and clearance, logistical support, and critical casualty evacuation. Ukrainian forces have demonstrated remarkable ingenuity, reportedly conducting their first documented all-robot assault in December 2024 and achieving success in July 2025 with an operation that relied solely on drones and ground robots, leading to Russian surrenders without Ukrainian casualties. Companies like Milrem Robotics have noted the “admirable creativity” of Ukrainian troops in adapting and augmenting their ground robots for unexpected uses.
This escalating robotic arms race underscores a fundamental shift in modern combat. The Ukraine conflict has become a crucible for rapid technological development, where both sides continuously test, adapt, and deploy unmanned systems to reduce human risk and gain tactical advantages. The omnipresent threat of electronic warfare compels continuous innovation in communication and autonomous capabilities, shaping an increasingly digital and automated battlefield where machines are no longer just support elements but active participants in the fight.