Focus | Russia develops new unmanned combat platforms to increase operational efficiency in Ukraine.

On December 18, 2024, Rostec, Russia’s state-owned defense conglomerate, stated that its efforts focus on the integration of robotics and artificial intelligence into unmanned systems to enhance operational capabilities while reducing risks to personnel. Key developments include systems that convert existing vehicles into autonomous platforms. Additionally, a wide range of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) is being developed for both combat and logistical roles, especially in Ukraine.
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Russia develops several remote-controlled tanks, such as the Vasya, based on a captured T-72AMT, or the Sturm robotic tank project, based on the T-72B3 chassis and comprising four variants. (Picture source: Russian social media)

Central to this initiative is the Prometey (Prometheus) hardware and software system, developed by Rostec's High-Precision systemes holding. The Prometey allows tanks, infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), and armored personnel carriers (APCs) to be converted into remotely controlled systems with minimal structural changes. These platforms retain manual control options and are equipped with technical vision systems for autonomous navigation, obstacle avoidance, and real-time data processing. In combination with fire control systems, these modifications are intended to enable operation in hazardous conditions.

In the short term, Rostec is prioritizing the development of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) for both combat and logistical support. The Depesha platform is available in tracked and wheeled variants. The tracked version is compact, highly mobile, and has a load capacity of 100 kilograms, with a maximum speed of 15 km/h. The wheeled version can reach speeds of up to 30 km/h and is better suited for transporting supplies, fuel, or evacuating casualties. Both versions are undergoing trials, including testing in Ukraine. Another platform, the Impulse-M UGV, is designed for combat support and equipped with modular systems such as anti-tank missile units. It is being evaluated under field conditions to verify its operational performance.

The Impulse-KPTM UGV, presented at the Army-2024 exhibition, is configured for mine-laying tasks. It features 30 launch barrels that can deploy up to 120 mines, including POM-3 anti-personnel mines with seismic sensors and PTM-4 anti-tank mines with magnetic influence fuzes. Powered by a 20-kilowatt engine, the platform has an operational range of four hours and a communication range of 20 kilometers using optical cables. The inclusion of self-destruct mechanisms for its mines is aimed at minimizing risks from unexploded ordnance. This system reflects Rostec’s focus on autonomous technologies for area denial and battlefield preparation.

Another UGV, the Karakal, has a load capacity of 500 kilograms and an operational range of 150 kilometers. It is designed for urban and off-road use and includes smoke grenade launchers for defensive purposes. It can be remotely operated using cameras and navigation tools. Additional systems include the Uran-9 unmanned combat ground vehicle (UCGV), designed for reconnaissance and fire support, and the Zubilo UGV, a modular 4x4 vehicle capable of carrying up to 2,700 kilograms of payload at speeds of 100 km/h. The Zubilo supports functions such as ammunition transport, casualty evacuation, and fire support and is currently undergoing testing for improved autonomy and active deployment suitability.

The Uran-6 is a Russian remotely operated mine-clearing robot designed to detect and remove anti-personnel and anti-tank mines, enhancing safety during demining operations. (Picture source: Vitaly Kuzmin)

Russia’s experience in urban warfare, derived from conflicts in Chechnya, Syria, and Ukraine, has influenced its development of systems for these operational environments. The Prometey system is an example, enabling vehicles like the BMP-3 IFV to be modified with remote-operated functions through the Sinitsa combat module. This module includes a panoramic sight with thermal imaging capabilities and integrates a 100mm cannon, a 30mm autocannon, and three 7.62mm machine guns. The BMP-3 has amphibious capabilities, achieving speeds of 70 km/h on land and 10 km/h in water, with a range of 600 kilometers. The BMD-4M airborne IFV benefits from similar modifications, with modular compatibility enhancing its operational role.

Developments in tank systems include robotic adaptations of the T-72 series, such as the T-72AMT  Vasya. This captured Ukrainian tank has been upgraded with modern night vision, improved armor, and a 125mm smoothbore gun capable of firing laser-guided missiles. It is designed for remote operation in high-risk situations. The Sturm robotic tank project, based on the T-72B3 chassis, is tailored for urban combat scenarios. Its configurations include shortened-barrel cannons, flamethrowers, and thermobaric rockets, with a modular design intended for integration with other armored units.

Russia has also enhanced its artillery capabilities with the Tornado-S Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). This system, derived from the BM-30 Smerch, employs guided rockets with a range of up to 120 kilometers and is designed for precision targeting. Plans for a robotic variant of the Tornado-S indicate an ongoing focus on reducing personnel risks in artillery operations.

In addition to UGVs, Rostec is developing systems such as upgraded S-400 Triumf missiles with active homing heads, Lancet loitering munitions with electronic warfare resistance, and a 6x6 Multiple Launch Drone System (MLDS). These developments align with broader efforts to integrate unmanned systems across military domains, including aerial and electronic warfare applications.

Russia’s use of artificial intelligence (AI) extends to information operations. It employs machine learning and big-data analytics to refine disinformation campaigns and develop battlefield tools such as facial recognition and deep-fake technologies. These technologies are intended to enhance situational awareness and influence adversaries. In urban combat, where public perception is a significant factor, such tools could be used to shape narratives and undermine opposition morale. This approach highlights the integration of advanced technologies into Russia’s broader strategic objectives.

Russia increasingly incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) across multiple military domains, using it to enhance its operational capabilities while minimizing personnel exposure. AI-driven technologies such as Prometey allow for the automation of tanks, infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), and armored personnel carriers (APCs), supporting autonomous navigation, obstacle avoidance, and remote operation. Roboticized systems like the Sturm tank project and unmanned ground vehicles such as the Uran-9 further integrate AI to address urban and high-risk combat scenarios. In information operations, AI supports data-driven approaches to disinformation, narrative shaping, and adversary disruption, with tools like machine learning, facial recognition, and automated decision systems. Russia's application of AI reflects its strategy to address operational challenges and adapt its forces to modern and future warfare environments.