A Russian company has developed a combat module with rocket-propelled flamethrowers for combat robots

Combat module based on RPO for robotic complexes

Moscow—based Robotics Engineering LLC has presented a new development, the "Single-use Jet Weapon Combat Module." The device consists of two metal casings, which house boxes for disposable rocket-propelled flamethrowers of various modifications (A, Z, E). Such flamethrowers are used to destroy manpower, shelters and lightly armored vehicles using thermobaric, incendiary or smoke charges.

The module is designed to integrate with the chassis of remotely controlled robotic systems (RTKs), expanding their striking capabilities in close combat conditions.

Flexibility of fire: volley or alternate shot

One of the key advantages of the module is the ability to flexibly control fire. The operator can select the firing mode from the remote control: fire a simultaneous salvo from all installed RPO for maximum effect, or fire alternately, depending on the tactical task. This allows you to effectively use ammunition and adapt to the changing situation on the battlefield.

This approach is especially relevant when storming fortified positions, clearing buildings, or suppressing enemy firing points.

Autonomous firing in case of loss of communication

The company also proposed "A way to solve a fire problem with a remotely controlled ground-based robotic system in an autonomous mode." This development makes it possible to theoretically implement firing even if the radio channel between the operator and the robot is lost.

In case of communication failure, the system automatically continues moving using satellite navigation (GPS/GLONASS) and IMU sensor (inertial measurement system) data. In addition, the ability to automatically aim at a preset target has been implemented, which increases the robot's resistance to electronic jamming.

Prospects of application in modern conflicts

The integration of rocket-propelled flamethrowers into combat robots reflects the trend towards increasing the autonomy and striking power of unmanned ground systems. Such complexes can be used to reduce risks for personnel when performing highly loaded tasks, especially in urban environments or in minefields.

The development of "Robotics Engineering" demonstrates the growing interest in modular, scalable solutions in the field of military robotics.

French robot DRAILER MARSEUS with Akeron LP missiles — a new step in unmanned warfare

DRAILER MARSEUS

At Techterre 2025, the French company Arquus unveiled a cool new thing — the DRAILER MARSEUS ground combat robot, which can carry as many as eight Akeron LP anti-tank missiles. This seriously increases its striking power and makes it an excellent assistant for infantry without unnecessary risk.

What is DRAILER MARSEUS?

This is a four-wheeled unmanned vehicle powered by a hybrid electric motor. It can travel up to 100 km at a speed of up to 20 km/h, while carrying a payload weighing up to 700 kg. That is, he can not only carry weapons, but also engage in reconnaissance, drone warfare, and even electronic warfare.

And what kind of rockets are Akeron LP?

These are modern fifth-generation anti-tank missiles weighing less than 100 kg. They have encrypted communication, the ability to work in the "shot and forget" mode or under operator control. The firing range is up to 8 km, and the target can be taken even from around a corner or over a mountain — out of line of sight.

The warhead of the missiles is tandem, meaning it effectively hits tanks with active protection, fortifications, lightly armored vehicles, and even manpower. In general, this is not just a toy — it is a real weapon of the future.

What is the good of such a system?

- Ranged combat: hitting targets at a distance of up to 8 km

. - Less risk to people: infantry can fire on the enemy without showing themselves.  

- Versatility: the vehicle can be a scout, fire support, and even fight enemy drones.  

- EU support: the MARSEUS project is funded by the European Defense Fund, which means it will continue to develop.

The final demonstration of the system's combat capabilities is scheduled for September 2025. If everything goes well, the DRAILER MARSEUS can become the standard for European armies — a mobile, autonomous and very powerful tool on the battlefield.

While the world is developing drones in the air, France is already actively developing ground-based drones. And if before they were more of an experiment, now they are fully operational weapons of the next generation.

China is developing an inexpensive alternative to the Russian T-90: the mysterious Norinco tank based on the T-72

The T-72-based Norinco tank

In recent weeks, the Chinese segment of the Internet has been actively discussing the appearance of a new main battle tank on the streets of Baotou (Inner Mongolia), which has caused a wave of rumors and speculation about its origin and purpose. Videos of the column of tanks and armored vehicles quickly went viral, with users initially mistaking the car for a Russian T-90 allegedly shipped to China. However, experts quickly refuted these guesses.

Origin and design features

- Soviet base, Chinese modernization: A detailed analysis showed that the tank was built on the chassis of the Soviet T-72, but underwent a deep modernization by the Chinese defense concern Norinco.

- Unique tower: The tower of the machine does not look like any of the Russian modernization options for the T-72 or T-90. It is made in the typical style of new Chinese tanks.

 Dynamic protection: Dynamic protection units (ERA) FY-2 are installed on the turret, which increases the survivability of the tank on the battlefield.

- Modern combat module: The tank is equipped with a remote-controlled combat module similar to the one installed on the export model VT-4, which indicates Norinco's desire to unify components and reduce cost.

- Commander's Thermal Imager: The commander's independent Thermal Imaging Sight (CITV) is seen on the roof of the tower, which meets modern fire control standards.

 Importance for the Chinese defense industry

- An affordable alternative: The new tank is positioned as an inexpensive alternative to the Russian T-90, which is important for countries with limited military budgets.

- Export potential: The use of the proven T-72 platform combined with modern Norinco technologies makes this tank attractive for export.

- Technological independence: China demonstrates the ability not only to modernize Soviet designs, but also to create its own solutions adapted to modern requirements.

Reactions and perspectives

- Experts' attention: The appearance of the tank has aroused the interest of military analysts, who note that China continues to actively develop a family of main battle tanks, focusing on exports and domestic needs.

- Opportunities for modernization: The tank's design provides for further improvements, including the integration of new protection and fire control systems.

The Czech Republic will purchase 24 mobile air defense systems based on the MARS 4x4 armored platform with the M-SHORAD system

The Czech Ministry of Defense has confirmed plans to purchase 24 mobile air defense vehicles equipped with the M-SHORAD (Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense) system. These vehicles will be built on the basis of the Czech MARS 4x4 armored platform, which will provide high mobility and protection in modern combat conditions.

Each vehicle will be equipped with a remote-controlled combat module with integrated three Swedish-made SAAB RBS 70 anti-aircraft missile launchers. This configuration will significantly increase the effectiveness of short-range air defense, ensuring the protection of troops and facilities from aerial threats, including drones and low-flying aircraft.

The RBS 70 system is known for its accuracy and reliability, and its integration into a mobile combat module based on the MARS 4x4 platform will allow the Czech armed forces to quickly respond to threats and effectively maneuver on the battlefield.

SVOS  MARS 4x4 

Kurganets-25: characteristics and application

 

Kurganets-25

Kurganets-25 or Object 695 is a promising medium tracked platform being developed by Tractor Plants Concern. Many other enterprises, such as the Burevestnik Central Research Institute and others, are involved in the development of the platform. The platform is designed according to a modular principle, which makes it easier and faster to manufacture and repair armored vehicles based on it. It is expected to start production for pilot military operation in 2015 and mass production in 2017.

Appointment:

The Kurganets-25 is a universal tracked platform, on the basis of which it is planned to create an infantry fighting vehicle (GABTU Index — Object 695), a tracked armored personnel carrier (GABTU Index — Object 693) and an anti-tank self-propelled gun with a 125 mm tank gun. It is intended to replace the existing infantry fighting vehicles in service with the Russian army.

Description of the construction:

The engine and transmission compartment of the platform is located in the front of the body and is shifted to the right to improve the layout of the machine. A ramp with an additional door in it is used to unload the troops. The weight of the machine will be approximately 25 tons. Metal armor elements will complement the active protection complex on the tower. Ammunition and weapons are isolated from the landing party and the crew.

The crew consists of three people. The troop compartment is designed for eight people.

The suspension is hydropneumatic, with variable ground clearance from 100 to 500 mm.

The BMD and BMP platforms are equipped with a remote-controlled universal combat module "Boomerang-BM", armed with a 30 mm 2A42 automatic cannon with selective ammunition (500 rounds of ammunition), a 7.62 mm PKTM machine gun (2,000 rounds of ammunition), two dual ATGM launchers "Kornet". An automatic grenade launcher is not provided. The movement of the combat module is carried out by computer-controlled electric motors. The combat module can be controlled by the gunner and the vehicle commander. Due to robotics, the universal combat module is able to monitor the target and independently fire at the object until it is destroyed, the operator only needs to specify the target, after which the computer will monitor it itself.

The car is also equipped with environmental surveillance cameras. There is an embrasure for an AK assault rifle in the rear door.

Experimental military operation:

Since 2015, batches of vehicles for experimental military operation have been sent to the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. The military cited the high profile of the car as a disadvantage. Despite the fact that the profile of the Kurganets is approximately the same in height as that of its Western counterparts (48 mm higher than that of the M2 Bradly and 58 mm lower than that of the German Puma), as well as the thickness of the armor, the Russian military, which traditionally prefers vehicles with a low profile, they call it the "grenade launcher dream." Because of this, the deadlines for completing research and development work (R&D) on the Kurganets-25 medium tracked platform were shifted by a year. According to Albert Bakov, First vice president and co-owner of the Tractor Plants concern, state tests will begin in 2017 due to the refinement of the machine profile.

Cars on the base:

Object 693 is an armored personnel carrier.

Object 695 is an infantry fighting vehicle.

TTX:

- Classification: Unified Medium tracked platform

- Combat weight: ~25 tons

- Layout: Front-engine

- Crew: 3 people

- Landing party: 8 people

- Manufacturer: Russia

- Years of operation: 2015 - present

- Body length: 7,200 mm

- Case width: 3,200 mm

- Height:

2,365 mm (on the roof of the hull)

3,020 mm (with the combat module)

3,290 mm (on the commander's sight)

- Active protection: Afghanite

- Dynamic protection: Yes

- Suspension type: Independent semi-active hydropneumatic torsion bar on longitudinal arms

- Surmountable ford: Floats