Ukraine Becomes First to Feed Troops With AI Robotic Kitchens on the Front Line

The Ukrainian Armed Forces will become one of the first militaries in the world to use fully autonomous robotic kitchens to feed soldiers, as part of a procurement deal with the German company Circus Defence.

The contract covers the deployment of up to 25 CA-1 systems for the 3rd Army Corps, according to official statements from the manufacturer.

According to Circus Defence, the CA-1 Series 4 is an autonomous AI-powered field kitchen capable of preparing, serving, and sanitizing up to 120 meals per hour without human intervention.

The system, introduced in 2025, features dual robotic arms that manage the full cooking cycle—from ingredient selection and stirring to plating and cleaning.

Each unit is designed to operate in demanding environments, such as military training grounds and rear bases, and can deliver up to 500 servings per load.

The system also adjusts stirring speeds and heat levels automatically based on the dish, using real-time ingredient tracking sensors. Cleaning is performed between meals via an integrated self-wash and disinfection cycle.

“The CA-1 enables 24/7 meal service, reducing kitchen staff needs by up to 95%,” the company stated on its official website. Preparation time per dish ranges from three to four minutes.

The Ukrainian Defense Ministry plans to deploy the new systems at tactical training bases used by the 3rd Army Corps. Initial reports about the agreement surfaced in December 2025, outlining that the CA-1 units would support food logistics during extended drills and high-tempo operations.

The systems will be used to ensure round-the-clock access to freshly prepared meals regardless of shift schedules or operational tempo, a need often cited by militaries operating in dispersed or mobile environments.

Earlier, Ukraine’s 4th Rapid Response Brigade “Rubizh” conducted 34 missions using ground robotic systems on the Donetsk front, delivering over 7 tons of supplies, evacuating 21 wounded soldiers, and retrieving both fallen servicemembers and damaged equipment.

On the Frontline of Truth

Our reporters risk their lives to show what’s really happening in Ukraine. Your support keeps them safe, equipped, and reporting.

SUPPORT FRONTLINE REPORTS