This footage, sourced from Ukrainian observation drones, shows their new unmanned ground drone (UGV) being used to attack Russian positions. While the Russo-Ukrainian conflict has been largely a war of aerial drones, ground-based attack drones are becoming more prevalent.

Ostensibly designed as a counter to tanks and other armor vehicles, the Ratel-S UGV officially debuted in October 2023, making it one of the newer weapons in the Ukrainian arsenal. Released data states that the Ratel has a top speed of 24 km/ hr, a range of 6 km, and an operational battery life of 2 hours. It is essentially used to silently run an explosive warhead or charge beneath a vehicle, or, in this case, into a trench.

The creation, testing, and production of the Ratel is entirely a private venture which was crowd-funded. Crowd-funding for weapons and materiel is becoming as commonplace in modern conflict as drones themselves.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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