Ukraine has presented a new battlefield innovation with the unveiling of the “Black Widow,” a ground robot that carries and launches FPV drones. Developed by the company IRV and showcased at the Iron Demo event near Lviv, the system is based on the Vepryk UGV platform. It marks a significant development in Ukraine’s growing use of robotic systems, as the military aims to produce tens of thousands of such vehicles this year to bolster its war effort.

Features And Capabilities

The Black Widow is equipped with two launch rails, enabling it to carry six FPVs that can be deployed up to 4 kilometers away. Operators can extend this range using a relay drone launched from the carrier, reaching up to 30 kilometers. The system allows simultaneous control of two drones, enabling one to conduct strikes while the other observes and confirms the impact. A full package includes two Vepryk vehicles, a ground control unit, and 12 FPVs, priced at less than $50,000—making it cheaper than a single Javelin missile.

Comparisons And Russian Counterparts

The Black Widow reflects Ukraine’s strategy of deploying low-cost, modular, and expendable platforms against Russian forces. The vehicle can be pre-positioned for ambushes, activated once enemy units are near. Russia has unveiled similar systems, including the Argus FPV carrier by Hermes and the fiber-optic-controlled Dronobus, both shown at defense expos in August. These developments indicate an intensifying focus on robotic drone carriers by both sides.