Ukraine’s New Drone Tactic Doesn’t Drop Bombs—It Drops Robots

Ukrainian forces have begun using heavy bomber drones to transport explosive-laden ground robots toward Russian positions, extending the operational range of the unmanned vehicles while keeping their carrier drones farther from enemy fire.

Footage of the tactic was published by the Russian military Telegram channel Arkhangel Spetsnaza on July 19. The video appears to show a large Ukrainian hexacopter carrying a compact unmanned ground vehicle suspended beneath it by a cable.

According to the Russian channel, the aircraft delivered an ARK-1 multifunctional robotic platform equipped with TM-series anti-tank mines. The ground vehicle was intended to continue toward Russian positions independently after being released by the drone.

The method could allow Ukrainian forces to bypass terrain that would otherwise restrict a small ground robot’s movement and reduce the distance it must travel through areas exposed to Russian surveillance and fire. It also enables the heavy aerial drone to release its payload before approaching the targeted position directly.

The exact location and date of the recorded operation were not disclosed. Ukrainian military officials have not publicly commented on the footage.

The ARK-1 is a compact, four-wheel-drive robotic platform developed by a Ukrainian company participating in the Brave1 defense technology initiative. Its use by Ukrainian forces was first publicly disclosed in June 2024 by then-Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.

The platform can reportedly reach speeds of up to 45 kilometers per hour and operate with a low acoustic signature. Depending on its configuration, the ARK-1 can transport ammunition, medical supplies, food, and other cargo or be fitted with explosives for one-way attack missions.

Earlier this month, Ukraine carried out what it described as the world’s first combat mission in which an unmanned surface vessel transported and deployed an armed ground robot behind Russian positions on the occupied Kinburn Spit, highlighting the military’s growing integration of air, sea, and ground robotic systems.

Protect Ukrainian Skies

Subscribe to Sky Defense