Ukraine Integrates Droid NW 40 Robotic System into Defense Operations
Ukraine has officially placed the Droid NW 40 robotic combat system into service. The platform represents the first standardized Ukrainian unmanned ground vehicle equipped with a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher, compatible with Mk-19 or AGL-53 systems.
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| Photo Credit: DevDroid |
The Droid NW 40 integrates the Wolly 40 combat module, designed for rapid target acquisition and wide engagement angles. Its launcher provides a maximum range of 1.5 kilometers and carries 48 rounds, with the ability to fire in single or burst modes. The system is intended to counter lightly armored vehicles, unarmored transport, exposed personnel, and fortified firing positions.
Beyond direct combat roles, the vehicle is capable of continuous battlefield surveillance conducted remotely. It operates on a fully electric drive, achieving up to 50 kilometers on paved roads and 40 kilometers off-road per charge. Endurance is rated at 12 hours while moving and up to 120 hours in static standby mode.
The combat module offers vertical movement from −5 to +65 degrees and horizontal coverage of at least 270 degrees. Targeting speeds exceed 100 degrees per second, enabling rapid engagement. Remote control is supported through Starlink, LTE, mesh networks, Wi-Fi, and Sine.link, with targeting conducted either manually or by coordinates.
The introduction of the Droid NW 40 marks a significant step in the integration of robotic platforms into Ukraine’s frontline operations. Previous Ukrainian ground combat drones have demonstrated extended deployment capability, including one instance where a system maintained a frontline position for 45 days without infantry presence.
With manpower shortages, Ukrainian forces are increasingly relying on drones and UGVs for offensive operations, defensive positions, logistics, reconnaissance, and evacuation tasks. This reliance reflects a broader shift in modern warfare, where unmanned systems are being used to offset personnel gaps and reduce risks to soldiers on the front line.
In offensive roles, drones and UGVs provide precision fire support and can engage enemy positions without exposing infantry to direct fire. Their ability to deliver sustained attacks or targeted strikes has made them a critical tool in breaking through fortified defenses and disrupting enemy supply routes.
For defensive operations, unmanned systems are deployed to monitor approaches, reinforce positions, and maintain constant surveillance over contested areas. By integrating sensors and remote weapon stations, these platforms allow Ukrainian units to respond quickly to enemy movements while minimizing exposure.
Logistics support has also become a key function. UGVs are increasingly used to transport ammunition, medical supplies, and equipment across hazardous terrain, ensuring that frontline units remain resupplied even under fire. In some cases, they have been adapted to evacuate wounded personnel from combat zones, reducing the need for human medics to risk entering dangerous areas.
Reconnaissance missions are another vital role. Equipped with advanced optics, communication systems, and sometimes armed payloads, drones and UGVs provide real-time intelligence on enemy positions, movements, and fortifications. This information is crucial for commanders to plan operations and allocate resources effectively.
The growing integration of unmanned systems highlights Ukraine’s adaptation to the realities of prolonged conflict. By combining human decision-making with robotic platforms, the armed forces aim to maintain operational effectiveness despite limited manpower, while also setting a precedent for future battlefield technologies.