21 June 2026
Engineers of the 425th Skelya Separate Assault Regiment have converted the Novator armored vehicle, adding a remote-control capability for use as a ground robotic system.
A test video was published on the 425th Regiment’s YouTube page.
To implement the project, the armored vehicle was equipped with a set of all-round cameras, a data transmission system, and equipment allowing the operator to control the vehicle remotely.
At the same time, the driver’s ability to control the vehicle using the steering wheel and pedals was retained for use in case evacuation is required after damage or a breakdown, as well as for long-distance movements.
According to the developers, the driver brings the armored vehicle to the mission area, remains at a safe distance from the front line, activates the remote-control system, and then leaves the vehicle. After that, a remote operator takes over control.
The regiment says the vehicle can be used to transport ammunition, deliver equipment, perform logistics tasks, or evacuate wounded personnel from high-risk areas.
Front-view camera on a converted Novator armored vehicle. Freeze frame from video of the 425th Regiment
“The advantage of this vehicle is that we can evacuate or transport equipment in larger volumes than a ground robotic system can. Also, in the event of a possible enemy hit, this vehicle has a better chance of continuing its mission,” a regiment representative shared.
However, according to the regiment’s military personnel, there is a slight video delay due to the use of Starlink, which currently limits maximum speed in remote-control mode to 40 km/h.
The issue is expected to be addressed in the near future, including through the installation of an additional communication system using LTE and possibly Silvus.
Work on the modernization of the Novator lasted about five months. The armored vehicle is currently undergoing final testing.
Remote-control station of the Novator armored vehicle. Still frame from video of the 425th Regiment
“In the future, we plan for our Novator to move from point A to point B fully autonomously, without a pilot and even without a remote operator,” the regiment reported.
According to Ukrainian Armored Vehicles CEO Vladyslav Belbas in an interview with Militarnyi, the Ukrainian Novator armored vehicle is at least 20% cheaper than foreign equivalents. As of January 2026, the vehicle cost about UAH 13 million, Belbas shared with Militarnyi.