Ukraine Hosts Conference on Ground Drones

Ukraine held its first conference dedicated to ground drones, bringing together military officials and developers to discuss the growing role of unmanned ground systems in modern warfare.

The “Ukrainian Ground Superiority Technologies” conference took place in Kyiv, drawing more than 200 participants to share operational experience and insights into the use of ground robotic complexes (GRCs) on the battlefield.

The event was organized by the Dignitas Foundation, which provides technological support to the Defense Forces. The foundation is a part of the Victory Robots Initiative, which focuses on integrating ground drones into Ukraine’s defense operations.

Discussions centered on the importance of stable communications for managing robotic systems, as well as training for operators and engineers.

Participants highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing Ukraine’s ground robotics sector amid full-scale war.

“A unified system of integrated GRCs offers the ability to control robotic units more easily and efficiently, rather than managing isolated assets,” said Brigadier General Andriy Lebedenko, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The Defense Procurement Agency presented key priorities and new approaches in state defense procurement.

Special attention was given to the BRAVE1 direct-action Marketplace platform, which aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in procurement and foster closer collaboration between producers and the military.

An exhibition space featured 15 domestic developers showcasing technological solutions for military use. Service members shared how robotic systems have supported tasks in the field and identified vulnerabilities in different models.

“We’re already seeing successful robotic operations by Defense Forces brigades—robots are aiding logistics, as well as mine laying and clearing. Our mission is to improve these systems to meet the Army’s needs and maximize their impact. We’re grateful to Dignitas for creating a platform to refine both products and tactics,” said Anna Hvozdiar, Deputy Minister for Strategic Industries of Ukraine.

Earlier reports noted that more than 200 Ukrainian companies are involved in developing ground robotic systems for various military applications.