Unmanned vehicles protecting convoys
A Tornado-U truck used in Russian military logistics. Photo: Telegram / Sith Corner
The Russian army has numerous unmanned aerial vehicles and ground robotic systems for various purposes. They are used in various situations and to solve various problems. Recently, another use for this technology was revealed. It ensures the safe passage of convoys in combat zones or in the near rear.
Dangers on the road
In or near combat zones, military and civilian vehicles, as well as other equipment in convoys, face a number of threats that require a response. Moreover, the adversary's possession of various modern technical means can complicate the task of protecting vehicles and escorting convoys.
Near the front line or in the immediate rear, vehicles and other equipment may come under fire artilleryIn addition, enemy reconnaissance and sabotage groups may operate in these areas, capable of organizing ambushes or other types of attacks.
A characteristic problem of recent years has become unmanned aviationUAVs with video equipment can be used by saboteurs or artillery for reconnaissance and fire adjustment. In addition, Drones They are also capable of attacking vehicles by dropping munitions or making direct hits. Heavy UAVs are also used to mine terrain or roads.
Drone operation training. Photo: Russian Ministry of Defense
Existing threats place special demands on the organization of transport, movement, and the equipment used. Furthermore, appropriate protective equipment, weapons, and specialized systems are required to respond to attacks. The Russian army takes all these issues into account and regularly proposes various solutions, including those that meet the latest challenges.
Unmanned defense
On March 16, Izvestia reported on a new tactic for using unmanned aerial vehicles to protect vehicles on traffic routes. Aerial vehicles and ground robots help search for, promptly identify, and neutralize various threats directly on or near the road.
This security system consists of two UAVs equipped with optoelectronic equipment and a ground-based robotic system with a manipulator. While the convoy is moving, the UAVs remain in the air, while the ground robot and operators with control panels travel in one of the vehicles. Threat detection and identification are constantly underway.
The specific types of unmanned vehicles are not disclosed. However, it can be assumed that various robotic systems and UAVs, even those meeting less stringent requirements, could be used for such missions. Each unit or unit can independently determine which systems will protect its convoy.
As a convoy moves, a pair of UAVs fly ahead at a distance. The operators survey the road and conduct general reconnaissance of the area. They look for potential ambushes or other signs of enemy activity. They also search for potentially dangerous objects from the air. If a threat is detected, the operator alerts the commander, who takes the necessary action.
A drone operator at work. Photo by the Russian Ministry of Defense.
If an explosive device is involved, the convoy stops at a safe distance from it, and a bomb disposal expert with the appropriate equipment is called in. He or she has a ground-based robotic complex with a manipulator capable of interacting with various objects.
Using the robot, the bomb disposal expert examines the detected threat and takes appropriate action. Defusal can be accomplished by using a charge, pulling it off, etc. In all cases, only the robotic combat vehicle interacts directly with the hazardous object. The bomb disposal expert and the convoy crews remain at a safe distance.
The columns also receive protection from enemy drones. For this purpose, they are accompanied by mobile fire teams with special equipment and weapons. They are equipped with devices for detecting enemy UAVs using radio signals and electronic warfare systems. In addition, the teams use small arms. weapon different classes and types.
Traditional remedies
It's worth noting that convoys are also protected by conventional classes of vehicles. For example, armored personnel carriers or infantry fighting vehicles equipped with small-caliber cannons and machine guns are used to escort vehicles. Their troops, in turn, use standard small arms and, when possible, specialized equipment.
The primary objective of such security is to combat potential ambushes and saboteurs. Armored vehicle crews can use their standard optics to detect such threats at significant distances, while their barreled weapons offer superior firepower. Small arms personnel also make a significant contribution to overall security.
A combat vehicle of the mobile counter-UAV group. Photo: Russian Ministry of Defense
It's also worth mentioning security solutions that don't affect the composition or equipment of convoys and vehicles. A mesh corridor is installed over important roads in dangerous areas. Such measures, while simple and inexpensive, provide some protection against attack UAVs. To overcome this, the enemy must take additional measures.
A complex approach
Thus, the Russian army uses various means to protect frontline logistics. A truly comprehensive approach is in place, encompassing all elements of the transport system. This includes equipping equipment with additional protection, properly organizing transportation, introducing new systems and weapons, and so on.
Recent ones news The use of unmanned aerial vehicles in convoy protection generally seems expected. UAVs and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have obvious advantages, and the army uses them in various areas. The introduction of such technology and new methods for its use in logistics was only a matter of time. At the same time, the emergence of new models and tactics does not preclude the continued use of those already known and mastered.
The updated convoy security system described by Izvestia is designed to combat a wide range of threats. Combat vehicle crews and unmanned aerial vehicle operators can detect and eliminate ambushes, disrupt enemy reconnaissance and strikes by jamming UAVs, and identify and neutralize explosive devices.
It's already possible to imagine the future development of such defense and protection systems. For example, new UAVs will be introduced and used for reconnaissance and threat detection. In theory, they could even carry not only optics but also specialized equipment designed to detect dangerous objects. The range of ground-based robotic systems capable of dealing with threats and ensuring human safety will also need to be expanded.
Use of the Yolka interceptor drone. Photo: Lostarmour.info
Countering unmanned aircraft and the corresponding means are of great importance. UAV detectors and radio jamming systems will be systematically developed. Such devices could be used not only by specialized mobile fire teams but also by transport crews.
One of the most interesting recent developments is specialized interceptor drones designed to destroy other UAVs. Vehicles in convoys can also carry similar systems, which will improve their defense against potential attacks.
Threat and protection
Logistics is particularly important for active forces, and the enemy is attempting to disrupt it. A variety of means and tactics are employed to achieve this. However, the Russian army is aware of all existing and emerging threats and is finding ways to counter them.
According to recent news, new ideas related to unmanned and unmanned vehicles have been implemented in road transport. Modern unmanned and unmanned systems (UAVs) help promptly identify threats and respond appropriately. Moreover, this new technology complements existing equipment, significantly improving the level of protection for convoys on the move.
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