Donetsk Region (Ukraine), Sep 22 (AP) – Amid the battlefield's turbulence dominated by the lethal presence of Russian drones, Ukrainian troops are increasingly leaning on agile, remote-controlled armored vehicles. These versatile machines can perform a plethora of tasks and potentially save soldiers from perilous missions. The Ukrainian military is particularly eager to implement these "robots on wheels" in light of a soldier shortage, as the conflict stretches into more than three and a half years. Resembling small tanks, these vehicles can transport supplies, clear mines, and evacuate casualties.
"They cannot fully replace people," remarked a commander from the 20th Lyubart Brigade, who goes by the call sign Miami and requested anonymity in accordance with military protocols. "However, sending a person can sometimes be too dangerous." Produced predominantly by Ukrainian firms, the price of these robotic vehicles varies from about USD 1,000 to USD 64,000, based on their dimensions and capabilities.
While essential to Ukrainian forces along the sprawling 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) front line, these vehicles aren't new to warfare. The German army deployed a remote-controlled mini-tank known as the Goliath in World War II. Additionally, in recent years, countries like the U.S., Israel, Britain, and China have developed modern equivalents for combat engineering tasks, as per Ben Barry from the International Institute for Strategic Studies. Yet, Ukraine's extensive usage is notable and might spur advancements, Barry indicated. The Russian army has also integrated remote-controlled vehicles into its arsenal.
From Drones to Autonomous Vehicles
Miami commenced his military journey on the first day of Russia's large-scale invasion in February 2022. Initially serving as an infantryman, he transitioned to a drone operator before his current role. His career trajectory mirrors the war's evolving nature. "I never imagined I'd become a drone pilot," he commented. "Yet, war drives progress, and we must adapt." The robotic vehicles employed by his team are armored, either wheel or track-mounted, and can traverse challenging terrains, whether it's rubble or dirt paths.
"Upon receiving these vehicles, we enhance them," Miami explained. "We tweak the controls to combat Russia's electronic warfare capabilities, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity." Miami's 10-person team is in the preliminary stages of integrating these machines into their missions, primarily using them to deliver essentials like food and ammunition to front-line soldiers. According to a member of Miami's unit, operating under the call sign Akim, the use of such vehicles is poised for growth, likening it to the rise of remote-controlled or first-person view drones. "Initially, FPV drones weren't widespread, but pioneers of the technology now yield impressive results," Akim pointed out.
An Autonomous Vehicle Never Tires
Before deploying a remote-controlled vehicle, Akim routinely sends a drone to scan the intended route for potential hazards or mines. Operating from a confined basement near Kostiantynivka, less than 10 kilometers from the frontline, Akim is constantly aware of the muffled sounds of bombs, artillery fire, and drone hums. Kostiantynivka, once inhabited by 67,000 residents, now stands mostly deserted, positioned in a precarious section of Ukrainian-controlled land just west of Bakhmut and nearly surrounded by Russian forces. The city's apartment blocks bear the scars of attacks, smoke rises from recent bombardments, and roads leading to Pokrovsk are strewn with burned-out vehicles.
The aerial drone provides Akim the advantage of scouting the city and routes without endangering himself. "Whenever a drone or robot completes a task, it means one less risk for our fighters," he highlighted. Furthermore, "a machine doesn’t fatigue. It can handle whatever load required." Akim collaborates with another soldier who operates the robotic vehicle via a joystick. In one instance, the team loaded an armor-plated vehicle with 200 kilograms (440 pounds) of provisions — ammo, fuel, water, and food — and directed it several kilometers to drone operators positioned closer to the frontline. The vehicle advanced at 6 kilometers per hour, discreetly delivered its cargo in the forest, and then safely returned.
Challenges on the Path
The gradual pace of robotic vehicles, coupled with their navigation over open ground, subjects them to potential targeting — a factor limiting broader adoption. "We've yet to use these vehicles extensively for evacuating the wounded," Miami admitted. "Many opt out due to the associated risks." Moreover, the price of vehicles in his platoon hovers around 400,000 hryvnias (USD 9,700). "While one is affordable, multiple losses can quickly accumulate costs," he elaborated. To reduce vulnerability, Miami and his troops have explored enhancements like welding grill-style cages or adding metallic rollers upfront to detect mines. The ongoing war offers immediate feedback, facilitating the development of improved models. (AP) SKS SKS
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