Ukrainian company UGV Laboratory has showcased an updated line-up of small unmanned ground robotic systems from the “Hyena” family. It includes the upgraded Hyena RED, the production logistics platform Hyena S, and a prototype strike system, Hyena COBALT. This was reported by Oboronka.
As a company representative explained, all platforms were developed as ready-to-use products: they can be deployed immediately after delivery, without spending time on additional field modifications.
The flagship Hyena RED UGV in its new version has received Starlink as part of the standard package. This has moved the system to a digital control setup. At the same time, an analogue radio channel has been retained as a back-up communications option in case of electronic warfare interference.
According to the developers, the updated Hyena RED can transport a warhead weighing up to 30 kg over a distance of around 30 km. Its operating speed is 16 km/h. The manufacturer has also increased the number of vehicles supplied: instead of five, customers will receive ten platforms. This will make it possible to organise continuous rotation while tasks are being carried out.
The platform’s body features universal mounts that can be used to secure the company’s standard munitions, improvised explosive devices, and TM-62 anti-tank mines.
Hyena RED is at the final stage of combat trials in a pre-production configuration. According to the developers, its configuration already almost fully matches the future production version. Once testing is complete, the company plans to begin serial production.
The Hyena S logistics system is equipped with a GPS module and night-vision cameras. In addition to transporting cargo, it can be used as a mobile observation post. To do this, the camera is raised above the platform, and the cargo compartment is filled with additional batteries, enabling prolonged video transmission.
According to the manufacturer, Hyena S can carry loads weighing up to 20 kg, reach speeds of up to 16 km/h, and operate at distances of up to 12 km. The basic strike version of the “Hyena” provides for fitting a warhead weighing up to 26 kg, has a range of up to 20 km, and is equipped with a self-destruct timer. The activation time can be set within a range of 30 to 60 hours.
Hyena S is already being used by units of Ukraine’s Defence Forces to carry out logistics tasks.
Another new addition is the Hyena COBALT strike platform. Its design has been adapted to mount two disposable AT4 anti-tank launchers made by Swedish company Saab. Under the developers’ concept, the platform is to fire two remote shots, then close in on the target and detonate in kamikaze mode.
Hyena COBALT currently exists as a working prototype. The development team continues to work through the regulatory procedures and algorithms required to supply these systems to customers in a fully combat-ready configuration together with AT4 launchers.
A UGV Laboratory representative noted that the emergence of small logistics platforms was a response to the increasing difficulty of operating medium-sized ground systems due to the large number of enemy drones in the air.
The chassis design across the entire family is intended for movement over difficult terrain. In particular, the robots can traverse gravel sections, building rubble, trenches, mud, and shallow water.