The Ukrainian company Ratel Robotics has begun field testing of its own net launchers on ground-based UGVs.
This was announced by the company’s executive director, Taras Ostapchuk, on Facebook, and representatives of the developer provided details to Militarnyi. The new modular solution is designed to intercept aerial targets by automatically firing a net.
The system is capable of detecting objects at a distance of up to 50 meters, and the effective range for hitting a target is currently about 15 meters. The system uses cameras and AI-based algorithms to automatically track enemy drones.
The prototype is equipped with three launch modules, allowing for three shots in different directions. The software triggers an automatic shot after target identification.
Currently, testing is being conducted on the Ratel H and Ratel M platforms, but the equipment can be integrated into other types of vehicles, including cars.
Reloading each module separately takes up to one minute when using pre-prepared replacement units. When using unprepared modules, reloading takes three minutes or more, depending on the circumstances.
Taras Ostapchuk stated in his latest interview with Militarnyi that deliveries of these systems to the Ukrainian military are scheduled to begin in September 2026.
