Ukraine Expands Ground Robots on Front Lines to Cut Casualties, Not Replace Soldiers

Ukraine is rapidly expanding unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs/NRKs) on the front lines to haul supplies, evacuate wounded, and support troops—reducing risk but not replacing infantry. Missions rose from about 6,000 to roughly 9,000 in the past month, with more than 150 units deployed and over 25 tons of supplies moved. Robots also recover damaged equipment and, in some cases, perform limited remotely operated combat tasks. While the tech is advancing, full battlefield automation remains distant and human soldiers remain essential; each unit costs around Hr 300,000 (about $6,800–$7,000).