Ukriane’s new game changing "ant" robots to be used for combat operations

The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has announced that it has approved a domestically manufactured unmanned ground based robot called Murakha (meaning “ant”) to be used in combat operations, on Saturday.

The Murakha is a tracked robot system that was designed to support unit in difficult conditions and under enemy fire and in mined areas in the front lines according to a report by the ministry. It can carry up to 500 kg across dozens of kilometres and resist enemy jamming due to its size and build.

Ukraine had been seeking to develop its uncrewed ground vehicles (UGV) due Russian electronic warfare and radio wave interruptions caused by the terrain.

Multiple control channels enable the drone to operate efficiently even in areas exposed to electronic warfare systems. Its features also allow it to navigate rough terrain and cross shallow water obstacles which could provide critical resupply capabilities in contested zones.

The drone was first unveiled in January 2024. It weighs around 350 kilograms and can travel up to 15 kilometres on a single charge. Running on one or two lithium batteries with capacities of 6, 8 or 13.6 kWh, it has a range of up to 30 to 40 kilometres.

Early this week the ministry had also approved the use of “Dodger” another UGV for use in the military. It can carry upto 250 kilograms and can transport munitions, tactical equipment and even wounded personal.

Ukraine has been trying to scale up its robotics development since 2024, hoping to produces unmanned ground vehicles that will minimize human involvement in the battlefield.

The country has already seen the use of AI drone systems and other unmanned aerial drones in its warfare. The war with Russia has led to an automation boom. Currently, the country’s defense agency has codified and fielded over 80 unmanned robots.

The Defense Ministry had announced early March this year that they would deploy 15,000 combat robots in 2025.

World