Ground Drones Edge Onto Ukraine’s Frontline, Redefining Modern Combat

Ukraine’s NC-13 unit is expanding ground unmanned systems from logistics to combat, using small kamikaze UGVs and automated weapons to support infantry. A five-hour mission showcased both potential and vulnerability when enemy drones destroyed three UGVs, underscoring that robots augment—not replace—soldiers. Ukrainian leaders expect rapid UGV scaling and more innovative uses in 2026 as production and tactics mature.