Platoon commander explains how Ukraine’s 123rd Territorial Defense Brigade adapts ground drones for frontline needs

This is stated in an Ukrinform report Army Robotization: How Modern Land Warfare Is Changing.

“Today, the brigade operates several models of UGVs, which we are adapting to the requirements of modern warfare. Among them are the Liut reconnaissance-strike ground robotic system, equipped with a 7.62 mm machine gun module, and the multipurpose TerMIT system with a 40 mm grenade launcher. Our immediate task is to achieve the highest possible accuracy using a video camera sight. Once we master this, we will be able to effectively use these UGVs for fire support,” said Oleksandr, a platoon commander in the 123rd Territorial Defense Brigade.

He noted that unmanned ground systems are still a very young field that has only recently begun to develop. According to him, today’s UGVs are comparable to what machine guns were during World War I. At the time, many also doubted their usefulness and questioned the “extra” ammunition they consumed. A similar skepticism can still sometimes be seen regarding UGVs.

“At the same time, there is already an understanding that UGVs are, on the one hand, a technological tool requiring specific skills, and on the other, the next stage in evolution – even compared to now-familiar strike UAVs such as FPV drones,” the serviceman added.

He added that the use of UGVs has its own specifics. While evacuation and logistics platforms can operate independently, strike UGVs are more effective when used in coordination with other drones and infantry units. With properly organized cooperation, the effectiveness of both increases significantly. In particular, better results can be achieved during offensive operations, Oleksandr emphasized.

As reported, Ukraine’s production of UGVs is growing by 500% annually, with extremely rapid development.

Photo: Communications Department of the 123rd Territorial Defense Brigade