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Ukrainian Army Adopts Liut Ground Drone to Enhance Fire Support on Battlefield.
On March 18, 2025, Ukraine took a new step in integrating ground robotic systems into its armed forces with the official approval of the Liut ground drone by the Ministry of Defense. Designed for reconnaissance and fire support missions, this system has already been tested in real combat conditions, particularly in the Kursk region, where it demonstrated its ability to enhance the operational effectiveness of Ukrainian units while reducing risks for soldiers. The use of such a platform marks a strategic shift in modern warfare, where robotics optimize combat capabilities and limit human exposure to threats.
A key advantage of the Liut is its remote operation capability, allowing operators to control it from a secure position, thereby minimizing direct exposure to hostile fire. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The Liut is distinguished by its versatility and integrated armament, including a 7.62 mm PKT machine gun and a sensor suite that allows it to detect and engage targets both day and night. Its compact design enhances mobility, enabling easy transport in a military vehicle while maintaining a low acoustic signature thanks to its silent electric motor. Its extended operational endurance, ensured by high-capacity batteries, and its high off-road capability allow it to navigate difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions effectively. These features make it a valuable asset for Ukrainian forces, particularly in demanding combat environments where speed and flexibility are essential.
A key advantage of the Liut is its remote operation capability, allowing operators to control it from a secure position, thereby minimizing direct exposure to hostile fire. It is part of a broader strategy to reduce the presence of soldiers in high-risk areas, optimizing both human and material resources within the armed forces. Its effectiveness was demonstrated during an operation in September 2024 near the village of Volfyno, in the Kursk region, where the UA_REG unit of the Ukrainian Special Operations Forces deployed the Liut alongside FPV drones and mortar fire. This coordinated maneuver inflicted losses on Russian forces, forcing them to retreat. Despite sustaining multiple hits from handheld anti-tank grenade launchers, the drone successfully completed its mission and returned to its operators, underscoring its resilience in real-world combat.
From a technical standpoint, the Liut features a front suspension and airless swivel wheels, enhancing its mobility across various terrains. Its chassis is protected by Class 4 armor, providing increased resistance to light arms fire and explosive fragments. The system is controlled remotely through an interface that allows a single operator to monitor both movement and weapon operation simultaneously. Its communication range extends up to two kilometers in line of sight, while its target detection capability reaches 1,200 meters. The drone can operate autonomously for up to 72 hours, travel distances of up to 20 kilometers, and sustain continuous movement for three hours before requiring a recharge. Weighing 330 kg, it represents a significant step in the integration of autonomous technologies within ground forces, contributing to an evolving approach to mechanized combat.
The official approval of the Liut by Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense is part of a broader initiative to incorporate ground robotic systems into military operations. In December 2024, the Ukrainian military had already codified the use of the Ravlyk, another robotic platform, followed in February 2025 by the authorization of various modifications of the Spextr systems. These initiatives reflect a clear commitment to integrating advanced technologies to enhance combat unit capabilities and strengthen resilience against battlefield challenges. The growing use of ground drones in modern conflicts aligns with key strategic objectives, including minimizing risks to personnel, increasing operational efficiency, and improving battlefield responsiveness.
In the context of the war in Ukraine, the deployment of ground robotic systems has intensified due to the static and highly contested nature of the front lines, where trenches and fortified positions make conventional assaults particularly costly. Platforms such as the Liut support frontline infantry units, providing mobile and flexible fire support, particularly in urban and high-intensity combat environments. Additionally, these systems contribute to swarm warfare tactics when deployed alongside aerial drones and remote-operated weaponry, expanding strike capabilities while reducing soldier exposure to enemy fire. Faced with an asymmetric and technologically evolving conflict, Ukraine continues to develop and integrate these innovations to bolster its defenses and maximize operational effectiveness. On a battlefield where every gain comes at a significant cost, the adoption of such technologies could play a decisive role in the continuation of the conflict and the evolution of modern military strategies.