The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has cleared a new armed ground robotic system for use by frontline units, marking another step in Ukraine’s expanding deployment of unmanned combat technologies. The newly approved Zmiy Droid 12.7 NRK is intended to reduce personnel risk while maintaining combat effectiveness in active conflict zones.
Equipped with a 12.7mm heavy machine gun, the robot is designed for direct-fire support and reconnaissance tasks. Its robust, battle-tested design allows it to operate across challenging terrain, including mud, sand, snow, and shallow water, ensuring reliable performance under demanding conditions.
The platform features an armored structure capable of surviving mine detonations and FPV drone strikes, enhancing its survivability on the modern battlefield. An integrated AI-powered Wolly combat module enables autonomous target tracking and engagement, while a single operator oversees both navigation and weapon control through a unified control system.
Ukrainian defense officials expect the Droid 12.7 NRK to conduct high-risk combat missions traditionally carried out by soldiers, allowing human forces to remain at safer distances. Previous deployments of similar unmanned ground vehicles have already demonstrated their operational value, supporting sustained engagements and confirming Ukraine’s growing expertise in robotic warfare systems.
