Russia to deploy MARKER UGV with Kornet anti-tank missiles to fight European/US tanks in Ukraine

According to information published by the Russian press agency RIA Novosti on March 31, 2023, the Russian army is ready to deploy its latest generation of combat robotic system MARKER fitted with a weapon station armed with Kornet ATGM (Anti-Tank Guided Missile). This type of combat system will be used by Russian armed forces to target modern MBTs (Main Battle Tanks) donated to Ukraine by European countries and the United States.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

A Russian MARKER UGV Unmanned Ground Vehicle armed with an anti-tank weapon station. (Picture source Wikimedia)

The Russian defense industry is currently prioritizing the rapid launch of mass production for robotic systems. The goal is to ensure that these advanced vehicles can be deployed promptly to the Ukrainian combat areas. By accelerating production and delivery, the industry aims to enhance the capabilities of the Russian armed forces and maximize the effectiveness of their missions. This initiative underscores the growing importance of robotic systems in modern warfare and highlights Russia's commitment to advancing its military technology.

In modern battlefields, the integration of uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs) equipped with anti-tank weapons can significantly enhance a military force's capabilities in combating enemy tanks. Due to their smaller size and remote operation, UGVs can approach enemy tank formations with greater stealth and maneuverability than manned vehicles. This enables them to get closer to enemy tanks, improving the accuracy and effectiveness of their anti-tank weapons.

Multiple UGVs can be deployed simultaneously to surround and engage enemy tanks from multiple angles, creating confusion and overwhelming the enemy's defenses. This coordinated attack strategy increases the chances of successfully neutralizing enemy tanks. It can be equipped with long-range anti-tank missiles, allowing them to engage enemy tanks from a safe distance. This reduces the risk to human operators and increases the survivability of friendly forces.

UGVs can also complement manned anti-tank units, providing additional firepower and support while minimizing the risk to human personnel. This enhances the overall effectiveness of anti-tank operations and increases the likelihood of mission success.

The Russian MARKER UGV is an advanced uncrewed ground vehicle developed for a variety of military applications. Designed to enhance the capabilities of the Russian armed forces. It features cutting-edge technology and autonomous systems. The primary functions of the MARKER include reconnaissance, surveillance, and support in combat operations. The vehicle is equipped with a range of sensors, cameras, and communication systems, allowing it to gather intelligence and relay information in real time.

Additionally, the MARKER UGV can be fitted with various weapon systems, including anti-tank missiles, providing a versatile and formidable asset on the modern battlefield. Its innovative design and autonomous capabilities position the MARKER UGV as a key component of Russia's ongoing efforts to modernize its military technology.

The Marker UGV comes in both tracked and wheeled versions. The tracked variant's suspension system includes five road wheels, an idler at the rear, a drive sprocket at the front, and two roller returns. The platform features a spacious payload bay area at the rear, while the engine and cooling units are situated at the front.

The platform's technical specifications enable autonomous operation for up to 48 hours on paved roads and up to 24 hours on rough terrain. In upcoming tests, the Marker platform is expected to cover distances of 50, 100, and 200 kilometers.

Integrating the Kornet anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) system into the Russian Marker UGV creates a formidable combination of advanced technologies for engaging armored targets on the modern battlefield. The Kornet missile has an impressive range, with the ability to engage targets at distances of up to 5.5 kilometers (approximately 3.4 miles) for the Kornet-EM variant, which is an extended-range version. This long-range capability allows the missile to neutralize enemy tanks and other armored targets from a safe distance.

The Kornet ATGM is designed to penetrate modern tank armor effectively. It utilizes a tandem-charge warhead, which can defeat reactive armor and penetrate up to 1,100-1,300 mm of Rolled Homogeneous Armor (RHA) after the reactive armor is triggered. This level of armor penetration ensures the Kornet's effectiveness against a wide range of armored vehicles, including main battle tanks such as the Leopard, Challenger, and the American M1A1 Abrams.

By mounting the Kornet ATGM on the Marker UGV, the unmanned ground vehicle can be utilized for remote or autonomous anti-tank operations, reducing the risk to human operators. This combination allows for accurate long-range engagements while maintaining the Marker UGV's stealth and mobility advantages.