Russia has unveiled a new first-person-view explosive ground robot known as the “Depesha” robot, designed to target personnel, military equipment, and dragon’s teeth fortifications. These dragon’s teeth are concrete blocks used to impede tank advances and prevent infantry from gaining ground. The ground drone is controlled by an operator wearing an FPV drone helmet and is currently undergoing extensive testing, including in Ukraine. Another version of the drone, called the “Buggy,” is wheeled and can also function as a kamikaze drone, carrying explosives to targeted areas. Rostec, the state-run defense giant, stated that the drones could assist front line fighters by delivering provisions, ammunition, and fuel, as well as evacuating wounded soldiers.
FPV drones are a common sight in the skies above Ukraine, utilized by both sides for surveillance, targeting, and delivering explosives to enemy vehicles. The introduction of ground drones, also known as unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), aims to keep soldiers out of harm’s way and reduce casualties. The “Depesha” drone has been described by Russia’s RIA Novosti state news agency as the world’s first ground-based FPV kamikaze robot. Ukrainian forces have also reportedly been using similar ground drones against Russian troops, with footage showing drones approaching enemy positions and exploding. Ukraine has begun mass-producing ground drones and plans to acquire hundreds more in the near future.
The “Depesha” robot has an explosive payload of 150 kilograms, while the “Buggy” can carry up to 250 kilograms of explosives, making them valuable assets on the front lines. These drones are capable of delivering supplies, ammunition, fuel, and evacuating wounded soldiers quickly and quietly, providing essential support to combat troops. Both Russia and Ukraine have been developing various types of ground drones with different functionalities, including logistics support and offensive capabilities. This development indicates a trend towards the increased use of unmanned vehicles in modern warfare, highlighting the importance of technological advancements in military operations.
The use of ground drones represents a shift in combat tactics, allowing for more precise targeting and reduced risk to human soldiers. The deployment of these drones in conflict zones like Ukraine demonstrates the evolving nature of modern warfare and the increasing reliance on unmanned technology. The development of the “Depesha” and “Buggy” drones by Russia showcases the country’s advancements in military technology, while Ukraine’s utilization of similar drones reflects the need for innovative solutions to combat challenges on the front lines. As both sides continue to enhance their unmanned capabilities, the military landscape is poised to undergo significant changes in the years to come.
The introduction of ground drones has raised concerns about the ethical implications of using autonomous machines in warfare, particularly in kamikaze missions where the drone is designed to self-destruct upon reaching its target. The impact of these drones on civilian populations, infrastructure, and the overall conduct of armed conflicts is a subject of ongoing debate within the international community. As countries like Russia and Ukraine expand their unmanned capabilities, there is a growing need for regulations and guidelines to govern the use of autonomous weapons systems and ensure compliance with international humanitarian law. The evolution of ground drones and other unmanned technologies highlights the need for proactive measures to address the ethical challenges posed by these advanced military tools.
In conclusion, the development and deployment of ground drones by Russia and Ukraine represent a significant advancement in military technology and tactics, with the potential to reshape the modern battlefield. These versatile unmanned vehicles offer new opportunities for reconnaissance, targeting, and support to frontline troops, while also raising ethical considerations regarding their use in combat. As both countries continue to refine their unmanned capabilities, it is crucial to address the ethical, legal, and humanitarian implications of autonomous weapons systems in order to promote responsible and ethical conduct in warfare. The emergence of ground drones as a prominent feature in conflicts like the one in Ukraine underscores the need for international cooperation and dialogue to establish guidelines and regulations for the use of unmanned technology in armed conflicts.
