Ukraine Sends Grenade-Launcher Robots Into Russian Positions Instead of Infantry

Live updates

1. 1h ago

   Ukraine Deploys Grenade-Launcher Robots Against Russian Positions

   Ukrainian forces are using ground robots armed with grenade launchers to attack Russian positions, reducing infantry exposure and clearing enemy shelters remotely. This tactic was employed during Operation Vivaldi, where robots cleared 30 kilometers in two nights without losses. The robots are equipped with automatic grenade launchers, such as the Mk 19, and are used to create the illusion of a full assault team.

   Why it matters

   The use of robots in combat is part of Ukraine's strategy to minimize infantry casualties. The robots are used for dangerous frontline tasks, such as clearing minefields and making combat airdrops. This development is significant as it showcases the evolving tactics in modern warfare.

   What is confirmed

   • Ukraine's 3rd Army Corps deployed grenade-armed ground robots to clear Russian positions near Lyman, keeping infantry out of direct danger.
   • Robots cleared 30 kilometers in two nights without losses during Operation Vivaldi.
   • Ukrainian forces used ground robots armed with grenade launchers to attack Russian positions and enter enemy shelters.
   • Drones can lay a minefield in 2 nights that would take troops 2 weeks to accomplish.

   Still unconfirmed

   • 3,000 Russian casualties claimed due to Ukrainian combat robots.

   What to watch next

   • Further developments in Ukraine's use of autonomous systems in combat
   • Russia's response to Ukraine's deployment of grenade-launcher robots
   • The effectiveness of Ukraine's robots in future operations
   Sources used for this update (19)

   1. mynews13.com — SpaceX sends 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit
   2. united24media.com — Operation Vivaldi: Ground Robots Cleared 30 Kilometers in Two Nights Without Losses
   3. Ars Technica — Robots make combat airdrops, clear mines as Ukraine defeats Russian pincer
   4. UNITED24 Media — Ukraine’s Operation Vivaldi Debuts First-Ever Attack With Bomber Drones Deploying Ground Robots, Video
   5. UNITED24 Media — Ukraine Sends Grenade-Launcher Robots Into Russian Positions Instead of Infantry
   6. Межа. Новини України. — Ukraine’s 93rd Brigade Develops Heavy Drone System to Deploy Combat Robot
   7. Yahoo — 3,000 Russian Casualties Claimed: Ukraine Drops Combat Robots 10km Behind Enemy Lines
   8. Мілітарний — UGVs With Grenade Launchers Attack Russian Positions During Operation Vivaldi
   9. Business Insider — Drones only need 2 nights to lay a minefield that would take troops 2 weeks: Ukrainian corps
   10. Business Insider — A Ukrainian commander tells us why troops attack in the day and roll out their war 'robots' at night
   11. Interesting Engineering — US ally plans robot soldiers to handle dangerous frontline tasks
   12. Мілітарний — BTR-60-Based Kamikaze Drone Helped Break Through Russian Defenses in Nove Village
   confidence 85%