Brussels, (Unib Rashid) — Ukraine has begun deploying robotic systems instead of soldiers in its ongoing war with Russia, marking a significant shift in modern warfare tactics.

The announcement was made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during an address to workers of the country’s defense industrial complex. He revealed that, for the first time in the war, enemy positions were fully captured using ground robotic systems and drones—without the involvement of infantry القوات.

“Instead of a soldier, a robot entered the most dangerous zone and secured the position,” Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing the technological breakthrough.

‼️ ZELENSKYY: For the first time in the war, an enemy position was captured entirely by ground robotic systems and drones – without any infantry. A robot entered the most dangerous zones instead of a soldier and took the positions.

«The future is here, on the battlefield, and… pic.twitter.com/maqECUunEj

— Kateryna Lisunova (@KaterynaLis) April 13, 2026

He further added, “The future is already here—on the battlefield—and Ukraine is building it.” According to him, unmanned Ground Robotic Systems (GRS) and drones successfully carried out operations that forced opposing forces to surrender, all without Ukrainian troop casualties.

Zelenskyy highlighted that systems such as Ratel, Termite, Ardal, Lynx, Zmiy, Protector, and Volya have collectively completed over 22,000 missions on the frontlines within just three months.

“In other words, more than 22,000 lives have potentially been saved,” he said, noting that robotic systems can operate effectively in high-risk zones where human soldiers would face extreme danger.

The development signals a new phase in warfare, where autonomous and unmanned systems are increasingly taking on frontline combat roles.