Ukraine

Ukrainian Military Introduces Advanced Unmanned Vehicle

The Protector UGV shifts the conditions at the front line with efficiency and safety.

Mikkel Preisler
By Mikkel Preisler 28. June 2025

Unmanned Systems Become Essential

The Ukrainian defense forces have just deployed the advanced unmanned vehicle, Protector.

The robot, developed by the Ukrainian manufacturer, Ukrainian Armor, is designed to assist the military with logistical and combat tasks close to the front line.

Protector is crafted based on the soldiers’ own experiences and requirements in the field. The vehicle can transport up to 700 kilograms of ammunition and equipment, evacuate the wounded, and serve as a mobile platform for remote-controlled weapon systems.

This enhances both efficiency and safety in front-line operations.

A Crucial Step for Frontline Soldiers

Vladyslav Belbas, CEO of Ukrainian Armored Vehicles LLC, particularly highlights the robot platform’s ability to discreetly transport smaller ground-based drones close to the front line:

“Transporting these drones is a challenge, but our logistical vehicle can discreetly deliver three to four of these units at once. This preserves their charge and increases their operational efficiency,” explains Belbas.

Protector features four-wheel drive and is equipped with run-flat tires, allowing it to continue driving even after being damaged.

The internal combustion engine provides the vehicle with a range of up to 400 kilometers and enables it to traverse difficult terrain and small water streams.

From Frontline to Finished Product

The development of Protector began in mid-2023 in close collaboration with one of Ukraine’s leading brigades in the Donetsk region, which early on saw the potential for unmanned systems in mining and assault missions.

Protector was first showcased at the MSPO Defence Industry Exhibition in Poland in September 2024 and has since become a symbol of Ukraine’s growing ability to develop effective, autonomous combat tools.

Flexibility and Cost-Effectiveness at the Forefront

Ukrainian Armor emphasizes Protector’s flexibility and potential for low production costs, although the exact price has yet to be disclosed. The vehicle can also be equipped with various weapon systems for direct combat against hostile personnel and armored targets, further enhancing its military value.

With the implementation of Protector, Ukraine significantly strengthens its technological and tactical capabilities, potentially turning decisive battles in their favor.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.