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Ukraine unveils unique ground robots built to fight inside pipelines

Mon, November 09, 2026 - 15:55
2 min
Ukraine unveils unique ground robots built to fight inside pipelines Photo: Unique ROBOTS for combat operations inside pipelines have been developed in Ukraine (Getty Images)

In Ukraine, unique ground-based robotic systems with enhanced maneuverability have been developed for combat operations in underground pipelines, according to the Khartiia Brigade.

"For Operation Veles, in the gas pipeline in the Kupiansk region, Khartiia is developing unique ground-based robotic systems. These ground-based robots are now underground—adapted to the conditions of narrow pipes and the specific tasks of this new domain of warfare," according to a Khartiia statement.

As noted by the commander of the unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) battalion, whose call sign is Matematyk (ed. - Mathematician), working underground is technically more complex, and off-the-shelf civilian tunnel-boring machines are too large for such conditions. Therefore, the unit has recently been working on several in-house designs.

"We must dominate underground," the soldier notes. The military unit has not yet disclosed the specifications, prices, or production volume of the new ground-based drones.

Recently, the Renault Group unveiled a modular unmanned ground vehicle called the Forefront Concept, built using proven automotive technologies and components.

The vehicle's design calls for the installation of two electric motors and a steering system for the wheels on both axles. According to the manufacturer, the vehicle can travel approximately 400 km on a single battery charge.

In addition, it was previously reported that the Croatian Komodo UGV from Rheinmetall completed bridge-laying tests in September.

The Ukrainian company ARMOLAB has unveiled the UNIMOD, a modular ground-based robotic system designed for airborne deployment.

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