Russian Kurier unmanned ground vehicles operated by the 14th Separate Special Purpose Brigade have been adapted for anti-drone missions. The developers of the robotic platform released footage showing the machines in a dedicated configuration for engaging UAVs.

In the video, an operator with the call sign Yuzhin presents three Kurier systems prepared to intercept aerial targets. Each vehicle carries a combat module fitted with two PKT machine guns, allowing the robots to engage small drones.

A thermal imaging sight is used to detect and track targets. Its video feed is transmitted to the operator’s display, while the weapon station is controlled through the Kurier’s standard control unit.

The anti-drone variants operate as part of mobile fire teams. Their role is to destroy UAVs and protect roads near the front line from drone attacks.

The first known case of a Kurier striking an aerial target was reported earlier in September. Russian servicemen used the ground robot to shoot down a Ukrainian heavy hexacopter of the Baba Yaga type.

Counter-drone missions are only one of the platform’s roles. Kurier robots are also used for fire support, laying and clearing mines, transporting supplies and evacuating wounded personnel. The vehicle can also be controlled through a smartphone.

The system was developed by the Kaps enterprise together with specialists from the Omsk Armored Automotive Engineering Institute. Its operating range exceeds 10 kilometers. Commands can be transmitted by radio, through a mobile network or over a fiber-optic line.

Nurzhан Rakimzhanov, a representative of the Omsk branch of VOIR, previously described Kurier as the most widely deployed and actively used combat robot at present. The developers have not disclosed how many of the systems are operating on the front line, but said the platform is widely used in the combat zone.