UAVs, UGVs and EW: Technologies Defining the Modern Battlefield

10.12.2025

Comprehensive solutions in the development of unmanned systems and electronic warfare open new opportunities for asymmetric influence in modern conflicts

Author:
Center for Army Research,
Conversion and Disarmament Studies

UAVs, UGVs and EW: Technologies Defining the Modern Battlefield

The defense capability of modern armies is increasingly determined by technological adaptation, with UAVs, ground robotic systems, and electronic warfare playing a key role. Among the most notable examples are the development of drone swarms at Thales, the large-scale “Drone Dominance Program” in the United States, testing of the LOONG M9 strike drone by LOONG UAV in China, and Egypt’s mobile BR7/STANG IV platform. In Ukraine, new solutions have emerged: the WIY STRILA interceptor, the “Shepit” pulsejet engine from Scopa Industries, the “cruise control” mode in drones by Vyriy, and kamikaze drones equipped with artificial intelligence. In the UGV sector, highlights include the American RIPSAW M3 (Textron Systems, Howe&Howe), the Ukrainian Sirko-S1 with the TROPIYA demining system from SkyLab, and the combat variant Protector from “Ukrainian Armor” with the “Tavria-12.7” module and Browning M2 machine gun, which attracts attention with its cost and production rates. UGVs are already being used to evacuate wounded soldiers under heavy fire, while demand for operator training in military schools continues to grow. In the EW domain, a major step forward is the grant program launched by the defense cluster Brave1, offering up to 8 million UAH in funding for producers of innovative components, aimed at accelerating R&D and scaling Ukrainian technologies.

UAVs, UGVs and EW: Technologies Defining the Modern Battlefield

Author:Center for Army Research,Conversion and Disarmament Studies

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Author:
Center for Army Research,
Conversion and Disarmament Studies