File image.
Russia has unveiled an unmanned ground vehicle featuring a specialized laser system designed for remote mine clearance. The technology can neutralize munitions up to 500 meters away by burning through explosive material to eliminate it without triggering a detonation.
The system was showcased in a preview for an upcoming segment of the Zvezda TV channel’s Military Acceptance show, scheduled for broadcast on August 23.
“The footage shows the beam silently burning through the munition’s casing and igniting the explosive inside without detonating it. The temperature reaches 1,000°C. This unique experiment was recorded using a thermal imager,” experts said in the footage.
According to the broadcast, the robotic vehicle enhances safety for explosive ordnance disposal teams by operating ahead of human personnel.
Developers highlighted the laser’s surgical accuracy, noting that its linear path allows operators to target objects using crosshairs, and that it maintains performance in smoky or foggy conditions. Featuring an elevation mechanism, the unit can reach targets from up to 500 meters away, making it useful for clearing unexploded ordnance inside damaged structures without endangering lives.
The equipment appears to be mounted on a variant of the Courier platform introduced last year, though this has not been officially confirmed.
The modular platform can be adapted for various tasks, including combat roles, mine-laying, engineering, electronic warfare, and kamikaze missions. It offers an operational runtime between 12 and 72 hours and can be operated remotely over distances of 3 to 10 kilometers, relying on environment and tactical needs.
While the system is currently still benign tested, it will likely end up entering serial production in the near future. The system will offer a much needed capability not just for Russian sabers in the special military operation in Ukraine.
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