SPEXTR: a modular wheeled UGV that can lay mines and operate as a kamikaze

The updated wheeled SPEXTR UGV, which completed codification at the end of 2025, has appeared on the state marketplace Brave1 Market. It is a modular wheeled platform that can be used either for remote minelaying or as a kamikaze system, depending on the configuration. Defender Media learned about the UGV’s features from its developers.

The first SPEXTR units were produced back in 2022 for the Azov unit, with initial trials conducted in Bakhmut. Around a year ago, the platform was transitioned to a wheeled chassis. The UGV has all-wheel drive, an electric powertrain, and can perform logistics, reconnaissance and combat missions.

SPEXTR is a compact UGV, with base dimensions of approximately 875–935 × 710 × 510 mm and a weight of about 55 kg. Its maximum speed reaches 15 km/h on hard surfaces. The control range is up to 3 km via radio and unlimited when using Starlink. All configurations support a self-destruct function and can be fitted with either a daytime or a day/night camera with infrared illumination.

According to the manufacturer, over the past year all key modules and components of the UGV have undergone significant upgrades, including a sealed interchangeable battery pack, a logistics cargo module, a minelaying module, communications modules, and a mine release system. Particular attention was paid to communications modules, for which several systems from different Ukrainian manufacturers have been integrated.

In the kamikaze configuration, the SPEXTR K2 is designed for single-use strike missions in high-risk areas. In this version, the platform is fitted with an explosive charge weighing over 50 kg and can be used to engage personnel and engineering structures. Its range is up to 20 km in the basic configuration and over 50 km with an additional battery module, while standby time is up to 12 hours, or up to 72 hours with an extra battery.

In the minelaying configuration, SPEXTR is used as a reusable system and is equipped with a sequential drop module. It can carry two TM-62 anti-tank mines or size-compatible equivalents. Mine release is controlled remotely from the operator’s console, with separate control for each mine. The system’s weight with the minelaying module is about 63 kg, its range is up to 10 km without an additional battery and up to 25 km with one, while speed over difficult terrain is 4–6 km/h.

According to the manufacturer, SPEXTR production volumes have tripled over the past year and continue to grow, while a significant share of work is devoted to repairing damaged or disabled systems returning from combat use.

Previously, Defender Media reported on the integration of the Buria robotic turret by Frontline Robotics onto the ARDAL UGV platform by BUREVII.