KYIV — A Ukrainian-built ground robotic system named Ardal has successfully rescued three wounded soldiers from behind enemy lines after they were surrounded for a month, according to an official announcement by the Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, Mykhailo Fedorov. The dramatic operation, which involved Ardal travelling over 17 kilometres through constant enemy fire, highlights the growing impact of domestic military technology on the frontlines.
Developed by the Ukrainian company Burevii, part of the Brave1 defence technology cluster, the Ardal robot played a key role in a high risk joint mission with the 92nd Separate Assault Brigade and the 154th Separate Mechanised Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to officials, more than 50 personnel were involved in the multi unit operation, including teams operating electronic warfare and aerial reconnaissance systems. Drones were deployed to distract enemy forces while Ardal advanced to extract the trapped soldiers.
Despite the dangerous terrain and ongoing enemy shelling, the robot successfully reached the injured soldiers, transported them to a safe location, and returned without sustaining any damage. The wounded soldiers have since been transported to hospital for treatment.
The Brave1 cluster, which began operations in April 2023, brings together Ukraine’s top defence institutions, including the National Security and Defence Council, the General Staff of the Armed Forces, the Ministries of Defence, Digital Transformation, Strategic Industries and the Economy. This project aims to integrate cutting edge military innovation into the battlefield to strengthen Ukrainian resistance against the brutal invasion launched by the Russian dictator.
