Image: Ukraine MoD
Ukraine has contracted more than 22,000 unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) for its Defence Forces so far in 2026, according to the Defence Procurement Agency DOT. That figure already nearly doubles last year’s total, and contracting continues, with further purchases planned before year’s end.
The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine ordered the contracts, all fulfilled by domestic manufacturers. Logistics systems make up the overwhelming majority of the fleet, followed by engineering platforms and combat systems. Thousands of these robots have already reached frontline units, including 2,069 delivered through the state weapons marketplace DOT-Chain Defence, where combat units select systems directly using allocated budgets.
These ground robots serve multiple battlefield roles. They deliver ammunition and food, evacuate wounded and fallen soldiers, and conduct reconnaissance-strike missions.
Their use is expanding rapidly. In June, Ukrainian units carried out more than 16,600 logistics and evacuation missions using ground robotic systems, up 18.6% from May and 122% from January, DOT reported.
Units earn ePoints for completed UGV missions, which they can redeem through the Brave1 Market for FPV drones, heavy bomber drones, additional ground vehicles, and electronic warfare systems.
The Ministry of Defence continues expanding Ukraine’s robotic arsenal. Since January, authorities have codified and authorised 67 new UGV models for operational use.
This surge in ground robotics forms part of Ukraine’s broader push for technological superiority over Russian forces, a stated priority in its defence strategy. Military officials believe wider robotic deployment could reduce casualties by replacing soldiers in high-risk logistics and evacuation tasks.
Read more on the Ukraine MoD website
