The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence has codified the Zmiy Droid 12.7 UGV

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence has codified the Zmiy Droid 12.7 reconnaissance and strike UGV developed by Ukrainian defence tech companies Rovertech and DevDroid. The manufacturers announced this in a joint press release.

Zmiy Droid 12.7 integrates the Zmiy UGV mobile platform by Rovertech with the Wolly 12.7 remotely operated combat module from DevDroid. The mobile platform is armoured, protected against anti-personnel mines, and capable of withstanding several hits from enemy FPV drones while remaining operational.

“We designed this platform based on real frontline conditions. In areas where any movement of infantry or crewed vehicles is immediately threatened by FPV drones or artillery, Zmiy Droid 12.7 allows these sectors to be covered without the direct presence of personnel and enables operations in environments that previously involved excessive risk,” said Rovertech co-owner Vasyl Korenovskyi.

Another advantage of the Zmiy Droid 12.7, according to the developers, is the universal Droid Box control system from DevDroid. This system serves as the “brain” of the ground drone, responsible for communication, control, and weapon operation. The company states that Droid Box enables the operator to control movement and armament simultaneously or separately, utilising an intuitive interface and automation features.

Key specifications of the Zmiy Droid 12.7:

• Operating range: up to 50 km;
• Traction force: up to 700 kg;
• Support for six communication channels;
• Compatibility with the M2 Browning 12.7 mm machine gun;
• Target engagement range: up to 1,000 m;
• Built-in ballistic computer;
• Target acquisition and tracking using AI elements;
• Optional narrow-angle and wide-angle cameras;
• Thermal imaging system for operations in limited visibility conditions.

Recently, Defender Media published a feature on how the SSU’s Special Operations Centre “A” uses the Droid TW-12.7 UGV.