British robotic dogs bolster Ukrainian defense in frontline operations
Another recording has surfaced online showing robotic dogs used by the Ukrainian 28th Mechanized Brigade. The devices provided by the British assist soldiers in dangerous missions, reducing the risk of injury or death. The robotic dogs help with tasks such as reconnoitring Russian trenches, transporting medication and ammunition, and detecting mines.
British robotic dogs recently made their debut in Ukraine, as reported by AFP journalists, among others. Ukrainian soldiers received a model named "BAD One" and a more advanced "BAD Two," which has not been widely showcased due to security concerns. Exactly how many robotic dogs are operating on the front line is unclear. According to the German newspaper Bild, there may be around 30 devices.
Robotic dogs in Ukraine
Robotic dogs have been added to the equipment of the Ukrainian 28th Mechanized Brigade, which shares photos and videos of their use on social media. One of these videos can be seen below:
The devices can perform various tasks, such as running, standing up, crouching, or jumping, depending on the operator's command. Combined with their silent operation, agility, and small size, this creates hard-to-detect robotic "beasts," ideal for reconnaissance missions or transporting small loads, even in the toughest conditions. The robotic dogs also have thermal cameras, providing significant situational awareness.
"BAD Two," the more advanced model of British robotic dogs, can reach a speed of up to 9 mph and operate continuously for 5 hours. The devices detect obstacles, and the camouflage used by the German company Concamo and the silent movement system make them almost invisible to the enemy. Notably, the operators of the robotic dogs can erase all data from the device in an emergency if it falls into Russian hands. Depending on the model and modifications, a robotic dog's cost ranges from 6,000 to 11,000 Canadian dollars.
