(KYIV, UKRAINE) – Ukraine has demonstrated the operational resilience of its Protector uncrewed ground vehicle, which can deliver nearly a tonne of cargo to frontline positions, even after sustaining damage from shrapnel and a mine.
Ukrainian Armored Vehicles, the manufacturer, has released rare footage of the robotic logistics platform currently deployed with the 429th Separate Brigade of Unmanned Systems “Achilles”. The video shows the vehicle completing a crucial supply run under fire, according to a report by Defence Express.
During the documented mission, the Protector was struck by fragments from a Russian first person view (FPV) drone. Despite the impact, the robot successfully delivered its cargo to the intended positions. On its return journey, the vehicle struck a mine and sustained damage that prevented its evacuation, the brigade reported.
The 429th Brigade noted that in a single trip, the Protector can transport nearly a tonne of supplies, a volume sufficient for approximately one week’s worth of ammunition, food and other equipment for a frontline unit. This operational capacity exceeds the system’s previously stated official payload of 700 kilograms.
Another key advantage of the platform, as highlighted by Defence Express, is its speed of up to 60 kilometres per hour. Beyond logistics missions, the Protector can be equipped with various weapons, including a combat module featuring a Browning M2 machine gun and anti-tank missile systems. Future configurations may include laser weapons and anti-aircraft drones.
The video showcasing the platform’s battlefield performance was released by the press service of the 429th Separate Brigade of Unmanned Systems “Achilles”, operating in an undisclosed location within Ukraine.