UPDATE: A Ukrainian ground drone has impressively defended frontline positions against Russian forces for an astounding 45 consecutive days. The Droid TW 12.7, equipped with a .50-caliber M2 Browning, has been deployed by the NC-13 Strike Company within Ukraine’s Third Army Corps, demonstrating the rapid evolution of military technology in the ongoing conflict.
Details of this remarkable mission, carried out in December 2023, were revealed exclusively by Business Insider. According to the unit’s commander, Mykola “Makar” Zinkevych, the drone conducted both attack and suppression operations autonomously, receiving maintenance every two days from a team stationed just 4 kilometers away from the front lines.
“This was the core concept — robots do not bleed,” Zinkevych stated, emphasizing the drone’s critical role in holding key areas against advancing Russian troops. The Droid TW 12.7 was tasked with delivering firepower to deter enemy advances, significantly reducing the risk to human soldiers in one of the war’s most perilous tasks.
The drone’s operational range extends up to 15 miles, and it can be controlled remotely or utilize artificial intelligence for autonomous navigation. However, the full extent of its combat capabilities remains to be seen. Zinkevych noted that the drone was moved multiple times during its 45-day duty based on requests from command and observation posts.
Maintenance for the drone typically took about four hours, during which ammunition could be restocked and batteries recharged. To optimize this process, the team invested in additional battery packs, cutting maintenance time to just two hours. This adaptability illustrates the innovative spirit of Ukrainian forces, as many troops often fund their equipment out of pocket.
As the demand for uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs) rises, the NC-13 team is advocating for broader deployment of these technological assets. Zinkevych pointed out that the unit, established in September 2025, is focused on maximizing the use of UGVs for both defensive and offensive operations. “The demand for these systems is indeed high,” he stated, while also acknowledging the resource-intensive nature of expanding their use.
Recent developments include the approval of two additional drone variants equipped with grenade launchers for official military use, enhancing Ukraine’s capabilities on the battlefield. The NC-13 Strike Company is actively pursuing crowdfunding to further develop its ground drones, highlighting the urgent need for innovation in combat technologies.
As Ukraine continues to confront ongoing threats, the success of the Droid TW 12.7 marks a pivotal moment in military strategy, showcasing how technology can reshape modern warfare. The effectiveness of this drone not only serves as a testament to Ukrainian ingenuity but also raises critical questions about the future role of robotics in combat.
The global community watches closely as these developments unfold, with the potential for significant impact on the conflict’s trajectory. For updates on this story and others, stay connected as the situation evolves.
