russian forces plan to modernize armored trains currently in service with their occupation forces by integrating so-called technical vision. The system consists of AI-enabled cameras designed to autonomously monitor the surrounding area, detect and identify threats, and enable armored train crews to engage them. According to available information, russia intends to equip all armored trains currently in service with this capability.
Once a target is detected, the cameras are expected to transmit a dedicated alert signal, after which the threat would be engaged using air-defense mounts, automatic cannons, or machine guns. The system is primarily intended to protect armored trains against reconnaissance drones and strike UAVs, which pose a direct threat to such platforms.
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In April this year, UAV operators of Ukraine's 152nd Jaeger Brigade reportedly struck one of russia's unusual armored trains. At the same time, russia has intensified its use of Shahed drones to attack Ukraine's railway infrastructure, particularly moving trains. Earlier reporting detailed how russia modified the Shahed into a large FPV-type drone. Meanwhile, Ukrainian long-range drones, such as the FP-1 and FP-2, are also capable of striking moving targets.
According to russian statements, integrating technical vision into armored trains is intended to make reconnaissance of railway lines and adjacent areas more effective and to provide additional security for train operations.
It is also claimed that the technical vision system has undergone battlefield testing. russian sources say the system requires multiple cameras, an additional data-processing unit, and either a connection to a commander's tablet or integration with the vehicle's control system to provide target designation. At the same time, the computer-vision software reportedly requires further training to ensure accurate object identification.
russian officials state that their forces currently operate four armored trains—Baikal, Amur, Volga, and Yenisei—which have reportedly been used in combat operations since 2022.
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