Russia has created the world's first ground-based kamikaze robot, named "Depesha" (lit. "Dispatch"), controlled using joystick and FPV helmet. The machine is designed to hit enemy manpower and equipment, as well as fortifications, the press service of Rostec State Corporation said.
"The High Precision Complexes Holding (part of Rostec) has developed the multi-functional robot complexes Depesha and Buggy. The Depesha robot is mounted on a tracked platform and controlled by an operator using a joystick and an FPV helmet. The Buggy robot has a wheeled platform and is controlled by a joystick and a tablet. Both robots can be used as ground-based kamikaze drones to attack enemy targets by detonating a payload that the robot carries to the target," the report said.
The most important features of the machines include compactness, maneuverability, and payload. Depesha has a payload of 150 kilograms and the Buggy drone has 250 kilograms, making them reliable assistants for soldiers on the front line.
Various versions of the robots can be used to strike the enemy's manpower, fortifications such as pillboxes, fortified firing points, and strongholds. They can also be used to overcome and clear defensive barriers, such as dragon's teeth, allowing for the passage of armored vehicles. In addition, these robots can lay land mines.
Depesha and Buggy can also quickly and discreetly deliver food, ammunition, and fuel to the front line and even evacuate wounded soldiers.
The robots are currently undergoing extensive testing in the special military operation zone.