Ukraine tests ground combat drone ‘Ironclad’ on front lines

Ukraine is currently testing its new ground combat drone, ‘Ironclad’, at the front lines.

Designed primarily for assault operations and front-line fire support as reported by Mykhailo Fedorov, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation.

Deputy Prime Minister Fedorov was quoted as saying, “This is a revolutionary product from Ukrainian engineers from Roboneers, which changes the approach to warfare and helps save the most valuable thing – the lives of our soldiers.”

This drone is a testament to Ukraine’s commitment to pioneering ground combat unmanned platforms. Interestingly, the design and development of “Ironclad” commenced prior to the full-scale Russian invasion.

Fedorov further elaborated on the drone’s capabilities: “The machine develops a speed of up to 20 kilometers, is equipped with a thermal imaging camera and a combat turret ShaBlia [“Sabre”] M2. It also has an armored carapace that protects against small arms. Ironclad can be controlled remotely from a safe place.”

Ironclad was crafted to undertake combat operations under extreme climatic conditions. While the initial model was introduced in 2018, the latest version displays noticeable upgrades. These include larger wheels, a redesigned body shape, an advanced combat module, and dedicated cargo space.