Ukraine Incorporates Flamethrower Robots into Warfare

The defense department of Ukraine has given green light to include a novel ground-operating drone, termed as a flamethrower robot, for battle-ready scenarios.

Introducing the Krampus, a resident creation, which has now been added to the arsenal of over 80 types of uncrewed ground vehicles ready for deployment by Kyiv's troops.

The Krampus is outfitted with RPV-16 rounds—these are thermobaric rockets initially developed by Ukraine for use as handheld infantry weapons.

Designed to undertake both offensive and protective tasks against foot soldiers and lightly armored targets, this tracked UGV operates silently on dual motors and is compact enough to be transported by a pickup truck.

This remote vehicle features interference-free controls and is engineered to endure extreme weather conditions, including ice, heat, snow, and rain. It's built to navigate challenging terrains like dense forests, sand, marshes, and steep hills.

The battery of the platform supports extended operations, enabling the UGV to hold its position in standby for long durations.

While the defense ministry has not disclosed specifics about its range or ammunition storage, images suggest it incorporates a camera-equipped tracked platform capable of hosting four RPV-16 launchers, designated mostly for single-use applications.

Sanctioned by the ministry, the Krampus' reach becomes pivotal as Ukrainian defense production and innovation are spread throughout the nation, with multiple stakeholders contributing to military tech advancements.

With official consent now granted, Ukrainian forces have the option to purchase the Krampus using their allocated funds.

This UGV, with its robust build, unlocks various operational possibilities beyond airborne drones, such as heftier ordinance transit for offensive purposes, medical evacuations, or mine clearing duties.

Oleksandr Chernyavskiy, who is involved in resource gathering for the 241st Territorial Defense Brigade's drone innovation team, highlighted that such ground vehicles allow the replacement of ground troops on the front lines.

His team has worked on a comparable UGV model, equipped with continuous-feed machine guns and boasts a 20 km operational jurisdiction, frequently collaborating with air drones to detect potential dangers like mines and unenclosed positions.

Chernyavskiy mentioned their UGV innovations have displayed proficiency, especially in operations facing fortified zones and concealed hazards, typically operated from afar without close infantry engagement.

Ukraine aims to deploy 15,000 UGVs to the front lines by the year’s end, marking a significant expansion of their unmanned ground capabilities.