Ukraine Deploys New KRAMPUS Robotic Strike System Armed with Thermobaric Launchers

The Armed Forces of Ukraine are taking another big step in modern warfare by officially deploying robotic systems equipped with thermobaric launchers. The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has authorised the use of the KRAMPUS mobile strike system, a homegrown robotic platform designed to support both attack and defence missions on the battlefield.

What is the KRAMPUS Mobile Strike System?

The KRAMPUS system is a compact, mobile ground robot built on a tracked chassis and powered by two silent electric motors. Its small size allows it to be easily transported in the back of a pickup truck, minibus, or trailer. This flexibility means it can be quickly deployed to frontline positions or difficult terrains, including off-road areas, dense forests, swamps, sandy zones, and steep slopes.

One of KRAMPUS's key strengths is its ability to withstand electronic warfare interference, which is a serious threat on modern battlefields. It’s also built to operate in tough weather conditions — whether it’s freezing cold, scorching heat, heavy snow, or rain.

The system is fitted with video cameras for real-time surveillance and remote control, as well as a weapon station equipped with RPV-16 reactive thermobaric launchers.

What is a Thermobaric Launcher?

A thermobaric launcher is a type of weapon system that fires specially designed warheads, known as thermobaric or fuel-air explosive (FAE) warheads. Unlike conventional explosives, which use only a single-stage blast, thermobaric warheads release a cloud of fuel particles into the air upon detonation. This fuel cloud mixes with atmospheric oxygen, and then a secondary ignition triggers a massive explosion.

The result is an intense, high-temperature blast wave followed by a vacuum effect. This can cause devastating damage to enemy personnel in trenches, bunkers, tunnels, and confined spaces, as well as to light armoured vehicles. The powerful overpressure and heat from a thermobaric explosion can also knock down walls and structures.

KRAMPUS System Features and Specifications

• Chassis: Tracked electric platform

• Power Source: Two silent electric motors

• Mobility: Capable of navigating off-road, forests, swamps, sand, and slopes

• Electronic Warfare Protection: Resistant to jamming and interference

• Weather Tolerance: Operates in cold, heat, snow, and rain

• Weapon System: RPV-16 reactive thermobaric launchers

• Operational Use: Both offensive and defensive missions

• Deployment: Easily transported in pickup trucks, minibuses, or trailers

• Additional Features: Real-time video cameras for reconnaissance and targeting

Ukraine’s Growing Robotic Force

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine has been rapidly modernising its military by introducing robotic systems to the battlefield. Over 80 ground robotic systems have been approved for military service so far — including nearly 10 systems in 2023, more than 50 in 2024, and over 20 in 2025.

These systems are not limited to combat roles. Some are designed for reconnaissance, mine-laying, demining, logistics support, evacuation, and patrolling duties. Ukraine has also developed weaponised ground drones for attack and defensive operations, along with kamikaze variants that carry explosive payloads to destroy enemy targets.

Final Thoughts

The addition of systems like KRAMPUS marks a new chapter in Ukraine’s military tactics, combining advanced robotics with powerful thermobaric weaponry. These compact, mobile strike platforms provide Ukrainian forces with a modern, flexible, and lethal edge on the battlefield — especially in urban and difficult terrains where traditional vehicles might struggle.