Deliveries of RTK "Depesha" to the troops
The Depesha platform in transport configuration. Photo by Rostec
By now, the Russian defense industry has developed a number of different types of ground robotic systems. One of the latest products in this class is the remotely controlled multipurpose platform "Depesha". It was first presented last summer, and soon the first RTKs of this type entered the troops. This equipment successfully demonstrates its capabilities, and the industry continues production and deliveries.
First samples
The multipurpose RTK "Depesha" was developed recently by enterprises from the holding company "High-Precision Systems" (part of the state corporation "Rostec"). The official premiere of the new complex took place last year at the military-technical forum "Army-2024". Several versions of the new robotic platform with different target equipment were shown at the forum.
At that time, the "Depeches" were in the testing stage. In the conditions of the proving ground, they demonstrated their running and cargo characteristics. In addition, the use of various payloads for solving various tasks was being worked out.
It was assumed that in the near future the new RTKs would be sent to the Special Operations zone for testing in real combat conditions. Which versions of the "Depesha" could get to the front were not specified at that time, although various assumptions were made.
Robots in the army
According to known data, "Depeshi" began to arrive at combat units in early autumn or a little later. The servicemen quickly mastered this equipment and soon began to use it to solve various problems. It is known that the troops received RTKs in a transport configuration. It is possible that carriers of special equipment were also supplied.
"Dispatch" with ATGM. Photo "High-precision systems"
In early November 2024, two videos appeared on specialized resources, which demonstrated the use of the Depesha RTK in combat for the first time. In both cases, the robots in the transport configuration were captured on camera, but they solved different tasks.
Thus, one of the RTKs shown worked as a truck. In combat conditions, it got from the rear to the front and delivered the necessary supplies to our soldiers. In the second video, "Depesha" solved a more complex task: it was loaded with explosives and sent to the enemy's field shelter. The robot had to be sacrificed, but the object was destroyed.
The Ministry of Defense was satisfied with the results of using the new RTKs. Thanks to this, new orders for the supply of such equipment appeared, and they are already being successfully fulfilled. Thus, on January 9, the holding company "High Precision Complexes" reported the production and transfer of a new batch of "Depeche" to the customer. The size of this batch, for obvious reasons, is not specified. At the same time, the manufacturer noted that the RTKs are equipped with different payload options.
It is already clear what results the current measures and work will lead to. For example, the interest of the Ministry of Defense and the presence of a state order contribute to the continuation of serial production. Thanks to this, the number of "Depeshes" in the troops will constantly grow. At the same time, the capabilities of units and subdivisions in solving various tasks will grow and expand.
Reconnaissance robot. Photo "High-precision complexes"
It should be noted that "Depesha" is not the only modern domestic RTK of its class. There are several other similar platforms that are also of interest to the army and find their place in the troops. As a result, a mixed multifunctional park of RTK with wide capabilities is formed.
The platform and its capabilities
The basic configuration of the "Depesha" product is a multi-purpose platform on a wheeled chassis with remote control facilities. This RTC can be used independently or as a platform for installing various systems and modules that solve certain problems.
The design of "Depesha" is distinguished by a certain simplicity. The main elements of the RTK are made of available materials. Ready-made units and assemblies are also widely used. With all this, the project developers were able to achieve fairly high characteristics and wide capabilities.
The wheeled platform of the "Depeche" is built on the basis of a frame made of pipes. Various mechanisms and devices are placed in the lower part of the frame, and a platform for the payload is provided on top. Additional modules and systems are attached directly to the frame or with the help of auxiliary devices.
The dimensions and weight of the Depesha RTK depend on its configuration and intended tasks. On average, the length of the product is from 1,8 to 2 m, and the width is about 1 m. The equipped weight of the robot is unknown, but it can be estimated at several hundred kilograms. The payload is 100 kg.
Engineering RTK for remote mining. Photo by Rostec
The project envisages the use of an electric power plant. A set of batteries of sufficient capacity is mounted on the frame, which are responsible for the power supply of the running motors, control electronics and payload.
The Depesha RTK has a two-axle chassis. Each wheel is equipped with a built-in electric motor. Both axles have independent suspension with springs and vertical levers. On the highway, the RTK reaches speeds of up to 30 km/h. On the ground, the speed decreases, but the chassis design ensures high cross-country ability. Depending on the terrain and the specifics of the mission, the complex can operate on a single battery charge for several hours.
The RTK is equipped with a remote control system, which includes a communication system and actuators. In addition, to monitor the road, the robot is equipped with a course video camera. To control the "Depesha", the operator uses FPV glasses and a gamepad controller. When installing various payloads, additional means are required for the operator.
"Depesha" can perform various tasks. Thus, for transporting cargo, a flatbed body of sufficient area is installed on the frame. Instead of it, a stretcher for one wounded person can be mounted.
The Sova RTK is proposed for reconnaissance. A small-sized radar and an optical-electronic station are installed on the Depesha platform. This complex should help artillery or other divisions.
Combat use of "Depesha" as a kamikaze robot. Photo Telegram / Sashakots
At the Army-2024 exhibition, a combat version of the Depesha, equipped with an anti-tank missile, was presented. rocket complex. A module with a launcher for standard remote mining cassettes has been created for the engineering troops. The platform contains 9 cassettes that allow the installation of mines of various types.
Experience from other domestic projects shows that other payloads can be installed on the Depesha platform. These could be new reconnaissance assets, various types of weapons, etc. In addition, as demonstrated by the fighters participating in the Special Operation in November, a modern RTK can be effective drone- single-use kamikaze.
Big success
In recent years, the Russian defense industry has created a number of ground-based RTKs with different parameters and capabilities. The Depesha platform is one of the latest developments of this kind, and it can be considered one of the most successful. Thus, in just a few months, this complex has gone from its first display at exhibitions to the beginning of combat use and the receipt of a government order.
Rostec and High Precision Systems are currently mass producing new Depeche systems in various configurations and sending such equipment to the army. The number of these RTKs in the troops is gradually growing and giving them new capabilities. The potential of the new serial complex is already being used in the Special Operation and is helping to achieve its goals.
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