Ukraine Deploys Ground Drones to Attack Russian Positions in Combat Footage

Iron Group Deploys Ground Drones Across Dozens of Kilometers

The battlefield overhead may belong to aerial reconnaissance and attack drones, but operations on the ground are seeing a rapid rise in unmanned machinery. The Main Directorate of Intelligence of Ukraine, known as the DIU or GUR, shared footage on social media detailing the tactical deployment of its Iron Group unit.

The published video captures armed ground-based unmanned vehicles, or UGVs, navigating complex terrain over stretches spanning tens of kilometers. According to the reporting outlet, these robotic systems actively engage Russian military positions with gunfire to disrupt enemy movements and provide cover for human soldiers.

Tactical Roles and New Hardware Additions on the Front Lines

Operating alongside special forces units, the ground drones perform high-risk tactical tasks designed to minimize human exposure. The released combat footage demonstrates UGV units destroying ambush-style drones that wait to attack passing Ukrainian forces, while also acting as decoys to shield advancing troops.

Logistical and combat support has scaled up significantly over the course of the year. To further expand these capabilities, defense officials showcased a new combat UGV equipped with two assault rifles.

Addressing Ground Transport Challenges Amid Air Dominance

The increasing reliance on UGVs highlights a fundamental shift in front-line logistics. As aerial drones exert near-constant surveillance and attack pressure from the skies, moving supplies, ammunition, and wounded personnel across the surface has become exceptionally hazardous.

Ground-based unmanned systems are stepping in to bridge that gap. By combining heavy weaponry like 12.7mm machine guns with automated transport capabilities, Ukrainian forces continue to adapt their tactical approach to maintain supply lines and protect personnel under heavy aerial observation.