UGV Protector: Ukraine tests large ground drone with weapon station for the first time

Ukrainian company Armored Vehicles has shown its large Protector ground drone with a weapon station for the first time. The Ministry of Defence approved the unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) for use in the Ukrainian army in June this year.

It is based on an SUV and powered by a 3-litre diesel engine with 190 hp. The vehicle is designed for a maximum of 45 km/h, and its range is 400 to 500 kilometres. Three communication channels, including Starlink, are intended to harden the UGV against electromagnetic warfare.

It is controlled from a ground control station with a virtual steering wheel, brake, accelerator and gearbox. The screen shows speed, engine speed, camera images and position coordinates.

The Protector carries up to 700 kilograms and can also tow a trailer. In the test it towed a trailer loaded with a three-tonne SUV without any problems.

The Protector is primarily intended to transport ammunition, equipment and supplies and to evacuate the wounded. Remotely controlled weapon stations and electromagnetic warfare systems can also be mounted on the UGV.

UGV fires with Tavria-12.7

In the latest trial, a Ukrainian-built Tavria-12.7 remotely controlled weapon station fired from various distances, both stationary and on the move. The manufacturer described the results as good.

The Tavria-12.7 is a remotely operated turret with a digital fire control system and a 12.7-millimetre Browning M2 machine gun. It can observe, detect and engage targets on the ground and in the air, including unmanned aerial vehicles. Armour protects the entire module against small-arms fire and fragments.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence cleared the Tavria weapon station for service in November 2024.