A collaborative defense effort between German and Ukrainian companies has resulted in the successful testing of an armed ground robot designed for deployment on the frontlines in Ukraine. The first of these systems are scheduled for integration and delivery to Ukrainian forces before the end of 2026.
The partnership was formalized earlier in October during a state visit to Kyiv by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, an event attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The robotic platform, known as GEREON, is manufactured by the German firm ARX Robotics. While unarmed versions of the vehicle are already in active service for tasks such as drone countering, electronic warfare support, reconnaissance, medical evacuations, and supply transport, this new iteration is designed specifically for combat missions.
To provide offensive and defensive fire support, the GEREON platform is equipped with the SABER weapons module, developed by the Ukrainian company ROBONEERS. This remotely operated system allows soldiers to engage targets from a safer distance. The module is highly customizable, enabling troops to mount a variety of armaments ranging from rifles to grenade launchers based on specific mission requirements. According to the companies, the goal is to provide a flexible robotic system that can be rapidly adapted to the changing needs of frontline operations.
ARX Robotics currently maintains the largest fleet of Western-manufactured unmanned ground vehicles operating in Ukraine. Maximilian Wied, the company's CFO and co-founder, stated that modern land forces require combat platforms that are capable of rapid adaptation, seamless integration with existing systems, and the incorporation of new technologies. ROBONEERS noted that its own robotic systems have been utilized in over 15,000 frontline missions since 2014.
Beyond the GEREON project, the two companies are deepening their cooperation through a joint venture focused on expanding the production of another unmanned vehicle, the Rys Pro. They are targeting a production output exceeding 1,000 units within the first year of this initiative in Germany and Ukraine. Meanwhile, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is continuing to prioritize artificial intelligence in military applications, with recent visits to the headquarters of Munich-based defense technology firm Helsing, which specializes in AI software for military platforms including submarines, tanks, and fighter jets.
Before the end of 2026, the first robotic vehicles fitted with the new weapons modules are expected to be ready for deployment and delivered in line with the needs of Ukraine's armed forces.
Helsing was founded in 2021 and has grown rapidly into one of Europe's most prominent defence technology companies.
