Ukrainian defense technology firm Drone Fight Group has developed a system named Kaban that converts standard automobiles into unmanned ground vehicles.
The equipment has already been delivered to three units of the Ukrainian Defense Forces: the 3rd Army Corps, the 429th Achilles Unmanned Systems Regiment, and the 49th Brigade.
The Kaban system is compatible with a wide range of automobiles and requires no structural modifications to the host vehicle. Operators can choose to control the transport remotely or operate it manually from inside the driver cabin.
Vehicle navigation and control features
When operating the vehicle remotely, the operator uses a digital map to plot and construct routes. In the event of GPS signal issues or electronic jamming, the operator can adjust navigation manually to keep the vehicle on track.
Satellite navigation systems like GPS allow automated positioning, but electronic warfare frequently degrades satellite signals along front lines. Providing manual override controls allows operators to maintain command when signals drop.
For communication links, Kaban uses Starlink satellite terminals while also supporting an analog video channel and radio control. Starlink, operated by SpaceX, provides high-bandwidth satellite internet connectivity. Analog video channels provide low-latency video feeds essential for steering vehicle platforms in real time.
If communication between the operator and the vehicle is completely lost, the Kaban system automatically brings the automobile to a full stop to prevent uncontrolled movement.
Sensors, lighting, and combat testing
Vehicles fitted with the system can be equipped with thermal imaging cameras if required for low-light or night operations. Thermal sensors detect infrared heat signatures from engines and surrounding terrain, allowing operators to navigate in total darkness.
Developers also integrated a two-way audio communication system into the kit, along with remote controls for vehicle headlights and searchlights.
Drone Fight Group stated that Kaban has already completed combat testing in operational environments. The development team is continuing to refine the hardware and software complex based on direct performance feedback from military personnel using the system in the field.
Additional Ukrainian military technology developments
The deployment of the Kaban system follows several other recent military technology rollouts in Ukraine. Ukrainian developers recently presented an interceptor drone engineered to target jet-powered Shahed attack drones at speeds exceeding 400 km/h.
Separately, the Ukrainian-made Chuika 4.0 drone detector was updated with a new sensor module designed to improve the detection and tracking of unmanned aerial vehicles.
