Ukrainian FRDM Group has developed a ground robot with missiles and laser guidance

The Ukrainian company FRDM Group has introduced a new version of the D-21 ground robotic complex with the D-18 combat module, which is equipped with five guides for 70-mm missiles. A Defense journalist spoke with the system's developer at the Brave1 Defense Tech Valley 2025 exhibition.

The company's main goal was to increase the range of targets with the existing D-21 NRK weapon. The missile system can hit targets at a distance of 10 km. And taking into account the ability to control the robot at a distance of 5 km, the range of the installation is extended to 15 km from the position.

"When developing this system, we aimed to replace large multiple launch rocket systems on the battlefield. In our realities, the firing range of such systems is about 15 km, so we cover this distance in our product. It is much cheaper, more mobile and launches missiles at positions remote from them," says a representative of the FRDM Group with the call sign "Sukhar".

The payload of the robotic platform is 200 kg on soft ground and 300 kg on hard ground, which allows it to install a module of five Hydra 70 missiles on it. However, the developer plans to integrate more guides into the module for a more load-bearing chassis.

The development team notes that the mobile MLRS has several application options. It can hit targets right next to it, or fire at full range from under trees and in bushes, which significantly reduces the visibility of the installation compared to larger systems.

Before leaving for the combat position, the operators determine the firing point and the reference point for aiming the installation. To protect the cameras of the combat module control unit from dust and products of rocket fuel combustion, they are covered with a curtain. It opens after the robot is placed in the firing position for aiming the installation.

The MLRS operation involves the use of not only unguided 70mm missiles, but also laser-guided missiles. The FRDM Group team has simultaneously integrated a laser targeting system onto the R-34 drone, which can provide targeting for missile launchers.

"Our infantry currently does not have enough tools for laser guidance. However, we have drones that can carry the payload and perform this function. Our codified solution already finds, reconnoiters the target and creates a laser beam with coordinates to which the robot on the ground is guided. Then the system launches and the missile is guided to the target by the laser," a representative of FRDM Group explains the principle of operation of the complex.

The fire system has a large modernization potential with the aim of creating a complex for combating air targets. In the future, the D-18 module based on the D-21 robot will search for and laser-guide missiles at air targets - strike and reconnaissance drones operating on the front line.

Thus, Ukrainian developers may soon be able to create a system similar to the American VAMPIRE anti-aircraft complex with modernized Hydra 70 missiles. This complex has become an effective solution for combating Shahed drones.

Previously, Defense reported on laser-guided munitions in the article Drones guide bombs to their targets. How Ukraine is giving laser guidance technology a second wind.