Ukraine Ground Drone-Air Defense Rocket Launcher Takes Out Russian Helicopter

Ukraine's 28th Mechanized Brigade has developed a robotic air defense system, combining a ground drone mounted with a shoulder-fired MANPAD which is launched remotely via computer. 

The system has been tested at the front and has already taken out a Russian helicopter which strayed to close. JL

Dylan Malyasov reports in The Defense Blog:

Ukraine's 28th Mechanized Brigade has developed a robotic air defense platform that combines a 4×4 unmanned ground vehicle with a shoulder-fired Igla man-portable air defense system (MANPADS). The system integrates the Igla launcher into a custom-built mount, enabling remote operation via a targeting module. This setup allows the operator to fire the missile without being exposed, reducing personnel risk in forward-deployed areas. "It already has a helicopter to its name."

Ukraine’s 28th Mechanized Brigade has developed a robotic air defense platform that combines a 4×4 unmanned ground vehicle with a shoulder-fired Igla man-portable air defense system (MANPADS), according to a report from Militarnyi.

The short-range air defense unit was developed independently by the brigade’s engineering team and is already credited with a combat success.

“It already has one enemy helicopter to its name,” the report said, citing the brigade’s statement.

 

The system integrates the Igla launcher into a custom-built mount, enabling remote operation via a targeting module. This setup allows the operator to fire the missile without being exposed, reducing personnel risk in forward-deployed areas.

An UGV equipped with a MANPADS. Photo by libkos

The makeshift solution is part of Ukraine’s broader wartime adaptation, where frontline units routinely repurpose and combine existing weaponry to counter Russian air and drone threats. The platform’s modularity and compact footprint suggest it was designed for flexibility and fast repositioning, particularly in contested or high-risk zones.

An UGV equipped with a MANPADS. Photo by libkos

Images of the system show the UGV maneuvering in rough terrain with the missile launcher affixed atop the vehicle chassis. According to the unit, remote control enables tracking and launch while maintaining cover, offering a new way to conduct mobile air denial missions with minimal exposure.