Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) are being utilized by Ukrainian forces for logistics and evacuation on the eastern front, specifically in the vicinity of Pokrovsk and Myrnograd. These vehicles provide a means of transporting supplies and evacuating personnel in areas under constant surveillance and attack by Russian forces.
UGV Deployment and Purpose
Ukrainian soldiers from the fifth brigade and other units are deploying UGVs to deliver essential supplies such as food, ammunition, and fuel. These deployments often occur at night to reduce visibility. Rapid deployment is necessary due to the proximity of Russian drone operations. Russian forces are actively attempting to disrupt Ukrainian supply routes in the Pokrovsk area, making traditional armored vehicle transport or foot-based supply missions highly risky.
UGVs, also referred to as land drones, are employed to mitigate these risks. The conflict in Pokrovsk is characterized by the extensive use of UGVs for logistical support and the evacuation of wounded personnel. These machines are compact, making them difficult to detect, and are less susceptible to jamming compared to aerial drones. Operators control them remotely from safer locations, contributing to soldier safety. According to Ihor, head of unmanned systems for the 7th Corps of the Ukrainian army, approximately 90% of supplies for the Pokrovsk frontline are now delivered via UGVs.
The 'Kill-Zone' Environment
Russian forces are targeting supply lines into Pokrovsk using remote-controlled drones, operating within a 30km-wide frontline area. This zone is characterized by intense drone activity from both sides, meaning any movement is quickly identified and engaged by drones, artillery, mortars, and aerial bombs.
Military doctor Vitsik and land drone operator Auditor, identified by their call signs, have experienced direct engagement within this zone during evacuation attempts. They recounted an almost hour-long drone and artillery barrage while trying to evacuate wounded soldiers, necessitating rapid evasion tactics.
Operational Challenges and Adaptations
Continuous drone threat means Ukrainian troops limit personnel rotation, leading to soldiers remaining in frontline positions for extended periods. This makes the delivery of supplies an increasingly critical task, driving up the demand for UGVs.
Units, such as the 5th brigade, conduct multiple UGV logistical missions daily. For instance, a UGV named Termit, capable of carrying approximately 200kg, transports water, ammunition, and fuel. To conserve battery life, the UGV is transported closer to the frontline by van before being deployed. Once offloaded, an operator remotely connects to the machine and guides it to its destination.
While some Ukrainian brigades have used UGVs since the previous year, their adoption has increased recently. Engineers from brigades like the 79th, previously focused on aerial drones, are now tasked with modifying and upgrading UGVs for combat zone readiness. These modifications include applying camouflage, welding new platforms, and integrating additional communication hardware. Despite these enhancements, UGVs remain vulnerable to drone attacks.