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Ukraine’s Latest “Spider” Tracked Combat Robot Takes Aim at Russian Armor, Drones, and Troops
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![Photo of Vlad Litnarovych]( "Photo of Vlad Litnarovych")
Ukraine has introduced a new tracked robotic combat platform known as Spider, designed to deliver fire support against a wide range of battlefield targets, including armored vehicles, fortified positions, enemy personnel, and low-speed aerial threats, according to Militarnyi on April 21.
The system was presented during an event hosted by the National Association of Defense Industry of Ukraine (NAUDI), attended by defense sector representatives and media.
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Spider is currently undergoing the codification process required for official adoption into service in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The platform can be operated remotely using multiple communication channels, including LTE networks, radio links, Starlink satellite connectivity, or fiber-optic control systems, offering flexibility depending on battlefield conditions.
The robot can be equipped with a variety of weapons, including Browning M2 heavy machine guns, PKT machine guns, and automatic grenade launchers such as the AGS-17 and Mk19.
❗️In 🇺🇦Ukraine, a mobile fire support platform called Spider has been developed on a tracked chassis.
— 🪖MilitaryNewsUA🇺🇦 (@front_ukrainian) April 21, 2026
The vehicle is designed to engage armored vehicles, fortifications, enemy manpower, and low-speed aerial targets. The Spider is equipped with machine guns such as the Browning… pic.twitter.com/9S6lkt8Kod
Its fire control system incorporates hydraulic stabilization, a ballistic calculator, and an auto-target tracking function developed by a third-party provider. The weapon mount can elevate up to +70 degrees, allowing engagement of elevated or airborne targets.
Spider is built on a domestically developed tracked chassis designed to navigate rough terrain and obstacles, while also enabling semi-autonomous movement to designated positions.
The current version does not feature full combat armor, but engineers have fitted the platform with standard steel to replicate the weight and dimensions of a future armored configuration.
Situational awareness is обеспечed through a 360-degree camera system, giving operators a full view of the surrounding environment. The platform is also equipped with smoke grenade launchers intended not only to conceal the robot itself but also to provide cover for nearby friendly units and equipment.
Depending on operational intensity, Spider can remain active for up to 72 hours, positioning it as a potentially valuable asset for sustained missions in contested environments.
Earlier, reports emerged that Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense plans to contract 25,000 ground robotic systems in the first half of 2026, doubling the total procured throughout 2025.
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