Germany and Ukraine test armed ground robot for frontline deployment

A German and a Ukrainian defence company have tested an armed ground robot for use by Ukrainian forces, with the first systems due to be integrated and delivered by the end of 2026.

The cooperation agreement was signed in early October during German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's state visit to Kyiv, in the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Before the end of 2026, the first robotic vehicles fitted with the new weapons modules are expected to be ready for deployment and delivered in line with the needs of Ukraine's armed forces.

It's known as GEREON. Built by ARX Robotics, the unmanned vehicle provides mobility and power and can carry out reconnaissance using cameras and sensors.

It can be fitted with the SABER weapons module, built by Ukrainian company ROBONEERS, which is mounted on top and provides remotely operated fire support for attack and defence capabilities. The companies say this allows soldiers to operate the system from a safer distance.

Unarmed versions of GEREON are already being used for a range of tasks in Ukraine. They can transport supplies, evacuate wounded personnel, support electronic warfare, carry out reconnaissance and counter drones. The platform can also be adapted for combat missions.

The companies say the aim is to create one flexible robotic system that can be quickly adapted for different frontline missions.

The SABER weapons module is also customisable, allowing soldiers to fit different weapons depending on the mission, from rifles to grenade launchers.

ARX says GEREON is the largest fleet of Western-built unmanned ground vehicles currently being used in Ukraine.

Maximilian Wied, CFO and co-founder of ARX Robotics, said: "Modern land forces need combat platforms that can be quickly adapted to different missions, integrate new technologies and work seamlessly with existing systems."