The Ukrainian military has received a major boost in its frontline operations with the formation of four new engineering unmanned systems companies. Thanks to the We Are Here to Live 2.0 project, these specialised units will strengthen the Support Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine by introducing advanced robotic and drone technology. The Come Back Alive Foundation, a key contributor to Ukraine’s defence efforts, has provided the necessary equipment, which includes ground robotic systems, aerial drones, vehicles, and mobile workshops.
The four companies will be deployed within the 808th and 70th Support Brigades, the 49th Brigade, and the 47th Engineering Brigade. Each unit has been supplied with a full set of cutting-edge equipment designed to enhance logistical support and demining operations. The package includes eight TerMIT ground drones in logistics and demining configurations, 16 Targan robotic systems, and four Vampire bomber drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras. Additionally, each unit received Mavic 3 reconnaissance drones, seven SUVs with open luggage compartments, and a mobile maintenance workshop for in-field repairs.
Beyond drones and vehicles, the military has also received 100 radios, radio-electronic jamming stations for each off-road vehicle, and repeaters to ensure stable drone operation in difficult battlefield conditions. The equipment was selected based on direct requests from engineers in the Support Forces and the expertise of the Come Back Alive Foundation. Once received, the systems will be formally included in the military inventory, with the state covering the cost of replacements in case of battlefield losses.
Operators of these newly transferred systems will work in teams of four, consisting of a ground robotic system operator, a reconnaissance drone operator, an explosives specialist, and a vehicle driver. According to Oleh, a staff sergeant of the 70th Support Brigade’s unmanned systems service, a single crew can operate two TerMIT drones simultaneously—one for logistics and another for demining—using a truck and trailer setup. This will allow troops to remain highly mobile and operate as close to the front line as possible.
In addition to mobility, the units will be equipped with portable antennas to maintain communication from protected positions, preventing exposure to enemy electronic reconnaissance. UAV signal relays will further ensure smooth drone operations in hard-to-reach areas.
For the 70th Support Brigade, these are the first unmanned systems of this class. Previously, the brigade relied only on heavy mine-clearing drones, which were unsuitable for frontline use. The newly provided robotic systems will significantly improve operational flexibility and safety for Ukrainian troops.
The Come Back Alive Foundation carefully selected these unmanned systems based on their proven battlefield effectiveness and the requirements of the Support Forces. One key consideration was transportability, ensuring that the 160-kilogram TerMIT drone could fit into the back of a standard pickup truck and drive into it via a ramp.
Cost efficiency also played a role in equipment selection. A single TerMIT drone costs approximately GBP 8 600, while a smaller Targan drone is priced at GBP 860 per unit.
Each company has also received a mobile maintenance workshop mounted on a truck, underscoring the importance of logistics and technical support for sustained combat effectiveness. The workshops are equipped with welding machines, heavy-duty winches, and generators to ensure that drones and vehicles remain in peak operational condition.
This initiative marks a significant step in modernising Ukraine’s battlefield capabilities, providing troops with the tools necessary to strengthen defences and conduct operations with greater efficiency and safety.
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