Ukraine's Ministry of Defense has officially approved a new domestically produced strike-reconnaissance unmanned ground system, Zmiy Droid 12.7, for operational use by the country's forces. The decision marks another step in the systematic integration of robotic platforms into frontline combat operations.
According to the Ministry, Zmiy Droid 12.7 system is designed to perform a wide range of missions in high-intensity combat environments, including reconnaissance, fire support, and defensive operations. The system was developed by engineers from two Ukrainian defense enterprises with extensive experience in building and operating ground robotic platforms under real battlefield conditions.
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The system is based on combat-proven Zmiy tracked platform, which has already seen extensive use in active combat zones. It is equipped with a remotely controlled Wolly combat module armed with a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun, providing significant firepower comparable to that of crewed infantry fighting positions.
The ground platform is optimized for difficult terrain and is capable of operating on mud, sand, snow, and shallow water obstacles. Its armored hull provides protection against anti-personnel mines and is reportedly able to withstand multiple strikes from FPV drones, reflecting the evolving threat environment on the modern battlefield.
One of the key features of Zmiy Droid 12.7 system is its integrated control module, which allows a single operator to simultaneously control both the vehicle's movement and the weapon system. This design significantly reduces reaction time and improves situational awareness, which is critical during dynamic combat engagements.
The Wolly combat module is also equipped with artificial intelligence elements, enabling automated target acquisition and tracking. This capability reduces operator workload and increases engagement accuracy, especially during prolonged defensive or suppression missions.
Ukrainian forces already have documented combat experience with similar systems. In previous engagements, the Droid TW 12.7 reconnaissance-strike ground robot successfully destroyed russian MT-LB multipurpose armored vehicle. In another case, the platform maintained a firing position continuously for 45 days, requiring only brief returns every two days for maintenance, reloading, and battery charging.
The primary role of such robotic ground systems is to replace soldiers in the most dangerous combat zones, reducing personnel losses while maintaining sustained firepower and battlefield presence.
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