Solutions to win: Amphibious ground robot covers 40 km by land and water in first Ukrainian military logistics mission
Photo source: Ministry of Defense of Ukraine
Soldiers of a separate mechanized brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine completed a logistics mission for the first time using a Ukrainian-developed amphibious ground robotic complex (UGV).
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reported this on its website, according to Rubryka.
What is the problem?
Water obstacles along the frontline remain a critical challenge for military logistics. Rivers, canals, and marshland areas complicate movement or entirely block routes for conventional ground robotic complexes.
At the same time, aerial logistics cannot always offer an optimal solution.
What's the solution?
An amphibious UGV enables troops to navigate complex routes using a single platform. On land, it retains the high cross-country capability typical of ground robots, then transitions to water mode within seconds to continue its mission.
Thus, a single robot can operate along routes with varied terrain types and cross water obstacles without requiring specialized transport equipment for river crossings.
Photo source: Ministry of Defense
How does it work?
During the mission, the amphibious ground robot traveled over 40 kilometers on land and in the water, delivering rations and ammunition to forward positions.
Ahead of its inaugural logistics mission, engineers refined the system over several months in close collaboration with military personnel, accounting for:
- Real-world operational tasks
- Field deployment experience
- Specific frontline terrain features
The Brave1 defense technology cluster provided grant support for the system's development, helping bring the design to practical deployment.
The Ministry of Defense noted that, together with Brave1, it continues to support the development of amphibious ground robotic complexes. Specifically, in June 2026, Brave1 launched a dedicated "Amphibious UGV" track under its updated grant program.
"We are expanding the capabilities of robotic systems to provide Ukrainian soldiers with more technological tools for completing combat missions," the defense ministry added.
Background
An amphibious vehicle is an all-terrain craft designed to travel across land, water, and air. Equipped with one or more engines, these vehicles are most frequently developed under contracts for military institutions worldwide. Amphibious vehicles are rarely built for civilian use, with tour buses serving as one of the few exceptions.
Reports also noted that testing began on the Ukrainian Ratel H ground robot in a strike configuration. Originally designed for logistics and evacuation, the platform was later fitted with a remotely controlled 12.7 mm turret for joint field testing.
Additionally, Rubryka reported that the unmanned systems company of the 66th Separate Mechanized Brigade conducted two missions using ground robotic complexes, evacuating four wounded service members—a record for the unit.
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