The Defense Forces of Ukraine are currently using a number of different Ukrainian-made robotic platforms on the battlefield, including the Ratel series. Defense Express talked to the head of this company, Ukrainian serviceman Taras Ostapchuk. He told about how these combat robots are currently being improved, based on the results of their operation in battles against russian occupation forces.
As of today, Ukrainian warriors use four types of Ratel platforms. These are kamikaze drones, evacuation platforms, logistics platforms, as well as remote miner. According to Ostapchuk, the company is constantly responding to operators' feedback. Now the fifth updating of these robotic platforms is being used at the frontline. At the same time the sixth is on the way with the corresponding improvements.
Read more: Ukraine’s Defense Forces Show How Pilots of Drones Prevent russia's Troops Assault Actions (Video)
It is important that Ratel ground drones can be controlled from a completely safe location. "Our platforms have been used with Starlink for more than six months. Our operator can be located anywhere in the world and manage the platform," Ostapchuk emphasizes.
Of course, drones have their limitations in terms of range. For instance, the average distance of a remote "miner" is approximately 3 km, while a record of 30 km was set for the evacuation platform.
As Ostapchuk explains, this refers to the range of the platform with a load of three people, which is about 450 kg. In addition, Ratel platforms are multifunctional. "We are currently developing a superstructure (for the logistics platform) that will carry 10 anti-tank mines to mine the area," the military says.
"As of now, we have direct contracts with military units. We are also at the final stage of signing an agreement with the Ministry of Digital Transformation and the Defense Procurement Agency. Brave1 helps with this. In fact, they manage the demand and government orders," Ostapchuk notes.
Earlier Defense Express reported that Ukraine had presented versatile ARK-1 robot that offers a multifaceted defense solution.
Read more: Ukraine Unveils World’s First Drone Warfare Branch
