Engineers at the Prosvet center, whose design bureau operates near the front line, have developed a device called Gravitsappa, according to the center’s head, who uses the call sign Ares.

The center is part of the engineering troops within Russia’s Sever group of forces. Ares said the new system is designed to remotely move improvised explosive devices and anti-personnel mines, as well as recover lost drones.

He explained that the site functions as a field design bureau where specialists develop, model and manufacture new equipment based on requests from servicemen at the front.

Gravitsappa can retrieve downed drones from areas that cannot be approached because of mines or enemy fire. Published footage shows the device gripping a pressure-activated anti-personnel mine and carrying it to a safe location for disposal.

Engineers have also proposed using the system to place so-called waiting drones in trees. This method reduces battery consumption and allows the aircraft to remain in position longer while waiting for a target.

Using Gravitsappa, the drone is secured to a branch. Once a target is detected, a servo mechanism releases the aircraft so it can continue its mission.

The device is built around plastic grippers designed to hold the transported object securely. It went through several stages of testing before being put into service.

The Prosvet center was established in 2025 as a field laboratory. It now serves as the unmanned technologies hub for the entire Sever group of forces and develops new technical solutions for use in the special military operation.