Ukraine deploys Wolly combat module for safer frontline defense

What is Wolly 7.62?

Wolly is a remotely controlled combat module developed by the Ukrainian company DevDroid. It is equipped with a 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun with automatic ammunition feeding, a thermal imaging system, and automatic target detection, recognition, and tracking. Essentially, it is a machine gun with a remote control system, allowing an operator to engage the weapon from a safe distance.

"The module is designed for combat and reconnaissance missions in challenging conditions, ensuring high target accuracy and protection for personnel. With its innovative technologies and versatility, Wolly is one of the key solutions for enhancing defensive operations," reads the product presentation on the manufacturer’s website.

The combat module is installed at defensive positions, checkpoints, observation points, and firing positions. Wolly is used for remote battlefield surveillance and targeting unarmored vehicles and personnel.

The module’s name is likely a reference to WALL-E, the protagonist of the 2008 animated sci-fi film by Pixar, as the Ukrainian combat module bears a visual resemblance to the fictional character.

Wolly 7.62 in the Ukrainian Armed Forces

Ukraine's Ministry of Defense officially codified and approved the use of the Wolly remotely controlled combat module for the Armed Forces in December 2024. This was confirmed by the Main Directorate of Armament Lifecycle Support.

"Ukrainian weapons manufacturers implemented advanced technological solutions in the combat module, based on military feedback and real combat experience. Numerous suggestions regarding control methods and automation processes were taken into account," said Deputy Minister of Defense Dmytro Klimenkov.

However, the Ministry of Defense had already been contracting robotic Wolly machine gun turrets for the Armed Forces before this official approval. In the summer of 2024, the ministry placed an order for 40 units, scheduled for completion by July 2024. At the time, DevDroid stated that Ukrainian forces had already deployed Wolly robotic turrets on the frontlines.

How Wolly 7.62 protects Ukrainian soldiers

The main goal of Wolly’s development was to maximize the protection of Ukrainian troops. The module can be stationed in a trench, with a control cable leading to a bunker. The operator can fire remotely from up to 100 meters away, allowing them to engage the enemy from a safe distance while reducing risks for machine gunners.

"This is a remotely controlled combat module. It is deployed at key firing positions, where a machine gunner would typically be stationed. Instead, we remove the soldier from direct danger and replace them with our combat module. The system is operated from a bunker using a tablet, which the operator uses to control the module and fire remotely," explained DevDroid founder Yuriy Poritskyi at the Brave1 forum.

The module is controlled via a tablet and a gamepad (joystick) and features an automatic target-tracking system. AI-driven neural networks automatically calculate target distance and ballistic adjustments, enhancing firing accuracy.

"Wolly is also designed for surveillance. It can be left at a position while the operator monitors the tablet remotely. If the system detects movement, it triggers a loud alarm, prompting the operator to investigate," added Poritskyi.

More details about the Wolly combat module

The Wolly turret is designed to mount 7.62mm machine guns, including Soviet-era Kalashnikov machine guns. It is tripod-mounted, and its design allows for easy integration with various robotic ground platforms.

The module is compact and highly portable, weighing only 30 kg (excluding ammunition). It can be easily transported and set up by a single soldier. Its high-capacity battery allows continuous operation for over five days without recharging.

Wolly features automated ballistic calculations, improving long-range accuracy. The thermal imaging system enables nighttime operation and effective targeting in poor visibility conditions.

Wolly 7.62 specifications

• Caliber: 7.62mm
• Maximum effective range: Up to 1,000 meters
• Control range: Up to 100 meters
• Weight: 30 kg (excluding ammunition)
• Battery life: Over 5 days (up to 130 hours)
• Targeting modes: Manual and automatic

Wolly 7.62 cost

According to DevDroid founder Yuriy Poritskyi, as of summer 2024, the cost of the full Wolly system (including the robotic turret and control unit) was $10,000.

"This is essentially the price of a machine gunner’s life on the battlefield," Poritskyi noted. He also mentioned that if the turret is damaged, a new one can be purchased separately for $5,000.

Currently, the manufacturer lists the price of the Wolly combat module at $12,000. The company has also been donating units to the Third Assault Brigade from its own funds.