Units of the Russian National Guard are deploying robotic anti-aircraft systems in Zaporozhye Oblast to shield populated areas from attacks by Ukrainian drones. The unmanned platforms are armed with 12.7 mm heavy machine guns and mounted on tracked chassis, allowing them to operate reliably across rough terrain and negotiate difficult landscape features.

The systems are built on the Courier robotic platform, which has already been tested in the zone of the special military operation. The platform is equipped with a 360-degree video surveillance system, night-vision equipment and a radar station. Control is maintained via a digital radio link, with an operating range of roughly three to ten kilometers.

According to data cited by RG.RU, the platform measures about 1.2 meters in width, 1.4 meters in length and 0.58 meters in height when unarmed. If required, the tracks can be reinforced with additional steel plating. The robot reaches speeds of up to 35 km/h, powered by an asynchronous electric motor. Depending on the operating mode, it can function autonomously without battery recharging for periods ranging from 12 to 72 hours.

Material accompanying a Rosgvardiya video explains that remotely operated platforms fitted with twin-mounted firearms are designed to detect and engage hostile drones effectively while reducing risks to personnel.

The footage also shows that these robotic anti-aircraft units are typically deployed in ambush configurations along the most dangerous approaches. Thanks to its compact size, the Courier can be covertly transported in the back of a standard military truck. Once delivered, the platform moves to its firing position under its own power and undergoes camouflage.

The heavy machine gun is used against enemy drones operating at low altitudes of up to 100 meters, particularly during attempts to strike civilian infrastructure. During the night of February 5, around 30 Ukrainian kamikaze drones were reported destroyed in this manner near Melitopol.