Third Corps deploys grenade launcher-equipped robots in assault
Photo: ground robotic system and FPV drone operated by Ukrainian forces (Getty Images)
During Operation Vivaldi, Ukraine's Third Army Corps used upgraded ground robots equipped with grenade launchers to attack Russian positions without the direct involvement of infantry.
The unit in question is the NC13 strike ground robotic systems unit. During the offensive operation, its servicemen upgraded ground kamikaze drones and used them according to a new scheme.
The robotic systems were equipped with two Bullspike grenade launchers. They were then sent toward Russian positions to attack them.
According to the Third Corps, the ground robotic systems attacked the enemy and then detonated directly inside their shelters. Ukrainian servicemen claim that Russian forces may have perceived the attack as an assault by a full-fledged infantry group.
In reality, the combat mission was carried out by robotic systems operated by personnel from a safe shelter. The Third Corps said the operators could be located dozens of kilometers from the line of contact.
The military released a video showing the robotic systems in action during the operation.
Third Corps deploys grenade launcher-equipped robots in assault pic.twitter.com/boZjjtNy1F
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According to the military's concept, the ground robotic systems performed several tasks as part of this tactic. They attacked enemy positions, created additional psychological pressure and helped clear the positions.
The unit also said that this method of using ground robotic systems was a new tactic in the war.
"No one has used a tactic like this in the history of warfare before. The robots were operated by personnel from a safe shelter dozens of kilometers from the line of contact," the Third Army Corps said.
The Third Army Corps has been developing tactics for using ground robotic systems behind enemy lines for several months.
The military tested deploying the systems from heavy Gryphon bombers, after which they began using the ground robotic systems to strike positions, logistics facilities and other targets up to 15 kilometers from the front line.
