German-made ground robot tested by Ukraine’s 3rd assault brigade

Ukraine's first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov made the announcement.

“Recently, we launched Test in Ukraine to give global manufacturers the opportunity to test their developments in real combat conditions. Ukraine’s unique battlefield experience helps shape effective technologies that can shift the dynamics of war. International companies are already putting their systems to the test on our proving grounds,” Fedorov said.

According to the minister, Germany’s DIEHL conducted its first test of a ground robotic system at the training center of Ukraine’s 3rd Assault Brigade.

During the trial, DIEHL’s team was able to assess the system in conditions close to real combat. The company also received direct feedback from Ukrainian troops who regularly operate ground robotic systems, along with specific recommendations for adapting the platform to battlefield demands, Fedorov noted.

While officials did not specify which ground robotic system was tested, Defense Express reports that the platform is the Ziesel UGV. First showcased in 2020, the Ziesel is promoted primarily as a support tool for infantry units, especially for logistics and medical evacuation tasks.

Ziesel UGV by Diehl. Photo: Janes for Alexander Stronell

According to Defense Express, the system weighs 350 kilograms and can carry up to 500 kilograms of payload. However, its compact size—1.31 meters in length and 1.23 meters in width—raises doubts about its effectiveness for medevac operations, the outlet noted.

"Such testing of foreign technologies benefits all parties. Foreign companies receive expert evaluations of their developments from specialists with frontline experience.

Ukraine, in turn, gains access to cutting-edge technologies, allowing not only for assessment but also for selecting potential solutions for procurement or collaboration," Defense Express' experts summed up.

• Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence (HUR) showed how the Lyut combat robot, armed with a machine gun, targets Russian soldiers in the Sumy region, moving through fallen trees and craters from explosions.