Ukraine’s new drone-defense robot combines MANPADS with UGV, enabling remote-controlled aircraft threat elimination with enhanced soldier protection
Frontline soldiers from Ukraine’s 28th Mechanized Brigade have introduced a customized solution to hostile drones: a remote-controlled robot combining a man-portable air defense system (MANPADS) with a compact unmanned ground vehicle (UGV).
The improvised system features an Igla missile launcher with a custom mount and remote targeting module, letting troops strike without stepping into the line of fire.
Designed for speed and mobility, the robot can be repositioned quickly during combat and engage drones, helicopters, and other low-flying aircraft.
According to the brigade, the system has already been used in battle and successfully shot down a Russian helicopter.
“Their aircraft, helicopters, and reconnaissance [drones] frequently operate over our infantry positions. Previously, MANPADS could be used directly from trenches,” the brigade explained in a Telegram post. “Now, first-person-view (FPV) drones make it difficult for soldiers to even leave cover.”
Tactical Repurposing
The MANPADS and UGV hybrid robot is part of Ukraine’s strategy of repurposing its existing weapon systems to address tactical gaps in the battlefield.
Troops have previously mounted grenade launchers on UGVs, converted sedans into machine gun-toting vehicles, and even used robotic platforms as “mobile hangars” for FPV drones.
They have also utilized old hoverboards to build a four-wheeled platform capable of carrying anti-tank mines, deploying smoke bombs, and transporting supplies to frontline troops.
These efforts reflect a broader trend in the war: both Ukraine and Russia are churning out makeshift, often homemade platforms to gain an edge in the drone-dominated fight.
