Ratel Robotics has begun mass production of an active protection system for the Ratel UGV, designed to intercept enemy FPV drones. The system is currently undergoing testing. This was reported by Ratel Robotics CEO Taras Ostapchuk.
As company representatives told Defender Media, the new version of the system has eight launch barrels positioned in different directions across the entire platform. The previous modification was stationary and fitted with three barrels; however, during operation it became clear that this solution did not provide sufficient effectiveness.
According to the developers, the upgraded system combines stereo cameras, computer-vision algorithms, a trained neural network and net launchers. The artificial intelligence analyses images from the cameras, identifies aerial threats and tracks their movement. When an enemy drone approaches the engagement zone, the system independently determines the moment to fire and activates the net launcher. No manual aiming by an operator is required.
Key features of the development include autonomous detection of FPV drones using the company’s own neural network, intercepting them with special nets, and 360-degree all-round defence. The latter is intended to protect the platform from all sides, including while manoeuvring under intensive attacks by small unmanned aircraft, the developers said.
The company notes that installing such active protection systems on Ratel-series ground robotic complexes should increase their survivability while carrying out logistics, evacuation and strike missions on the front line.
Ratel Robotics is a Ukrainian manufacturer of ground robotic complexes that has been developing drones since 2023. The company’s robotic platforms are used for battlefield logistics, casualty evacuation, reconnaissance, drone launching and demining. In 2026, the company signed contracts totalling $86 million. The company is also in talks with several NATO countries under the “Build With Ukraine” initiative. Recently, the company was acquired by US-based Swarmer, Inc., which develops autonomous drone-control platforms.
By way of reminder, Ratel Robotics recently tested an autopilot for its systems and integrated a remotely operated 12.7 mm turret on the Ratel H UGV.