Ukraine's first firefighting robot authorized for use in military service

Ukraine's Defense Ministry reports.

Using a remote control, the operator guides the robot from a safe location to the center of the fire. The flow of liquid applied to the fire source can be adjusted remotely, according to the Defense Ministry.

The firefighting robot operates at a distance of up to 2 km from the operator on open terrain and up to 400 meters on rough terrain.

The ministry reports that the robot was initially developed for civilian emergency rescue services, but the military showed interest in it.

"This robot is needed, for example, in areas with unexploded ordnance, near burning equipment where there is a risk of ammunition detonation, and in other potentially dangerous situations that pose a risk to the lives and health of military personnel," the statement says.

With its tracked chassis, the robot can traverse rough terrain, move over burning debris, and operate in extreme temperatures.

• Ukraine has launched the Ratel H robot, which is designed to evacuate the wounded from the battlefield. It can carry more than 400 kg.