Ukraine has approved a grenade launcher-equipped unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) for service with its armed forces, expanding the country’s growing fleet of battlefield robots.
Called “Zmiy Mini Strike,” the platform was developed by a local company in partnership with engineers from one of the military’s frontline combat brigades.
The UGV is designed for intelligence gathering, fire support, and direct attack missions against enemy personnel and armored vehicles, with its design shaped by lessons from more than four years of full-scale war and battlefield experience with robotic systems.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence said testing and battlefield evaluation confirmed the system’s capabilities.
Compact Armed Robot
Zmiy Mini Strike carries an MK19 automatic grenade launcher in its standard configuration and can also integrate other infantry weapon modules depending on mission requirements.
Powered by a silent electric motor, the platform allows operators to conduct fires from concealed positions while reducing exposure to enemy threats.
The robot features a wheeled chassis designed for mobility, along with optical and thermal cameras, extended battery endurance, and rapid deployment capabilities.
Its compact design allows it to be transported inside a minivan, pickup truck, or standard trailer without requiring specialized equipment.
Growing UGV Fleet
Ukraine has approved 72 new ground robotic systems since the start of 2026, all assembled domestically by local industry partners.
Ukraine’s Defence Procurement Agency has also contracted more than 22,000 UGVs for delivery later this year, nearly double the total procured in 2025.
