Robotics: Ukrainian firm Hyena Laboratory debuts new ground robot lineup
The updated Hyena series includes a combat model with Starlink integration and a logistics vehicle already in field service.
By Giulia Marshall ·
Hyena Laboratory, a Ukrainian robotics developer, presented a new series of small ground vehicles for military applications at the Iron Halloween Party 2026 event in late October. The company unveiled three distinct platforms in this updated family: an enhanced combat model, a logistics vehicle for mass production, and a prototype combat robot.
A representative for the firm stated that all systems in the new lineup are designed to function immediately upon deployment. The engineering approach removes the need for on-site modifications, allowing military units to integrate the robots into combat operations without complex setup procedures.
The primary upgrade is the Hyena Red, a combat model that now includes a Starlink terminal as a standard feature. This addition enables digital control channels. To maintain reliability in areas with electronic interference, the system retains an analogue radio channel as a backup if enemy forces jam the digital signal.
The Hyena Red hull features standardized mounting points for various payloads. Operators can attach standard manufacturer ammunition, improvised explosive devices, or TM-62 anti-tank mines. The platform carries a warhead weighing under 30 kilograms over a distance of approximately 30 kilometers. It travels at a speed of 16 kilometers per hour and is built to handle difficult terrain, including rubble, trenches, mud, and shallow water.
The company has expanded the supply set for the Hyena Red from five to ten vehicles. This increase supports continuous operations by allowing units to rotate platforms effectively. The system is currently undergoing combat trials in a pre-production format that matches the final product, with mass production planned for the near future.
The Hyena S logistics platform is already in full service with Ukrainian defence forces. It is equipped with a GPS module and night cameras, serving as both a transport vehicle and an observation post. The camera can be raised to monitor the area, and the payload bay holds extra batteries to extend video transmission. The vehicle carries a load of up to 20 kilograms, travels at 16 kilometers per hour, and has a range of 12 kilometers.
Company officials noted that the rise in enemy drones has complicated the use of medium-sized vehicles. Small platforms like the Hyena S fill this operational gap. One representative indicated that some units transport more cargo using these small robots because they can operate continuously on established routes.
The third vehicle, Hyena Cobalt, is a combat prototype designed to hold two AT4 disposable grenade launchers made by Saab. The system is intended to fire two remote shots before detonating near the target. Developers are currently working on regulatory algorithms to prepare the system for delivery with the launchers. The baseline Hyena combat vehicle, which underpins these updates, carries a warhead under 26 kilograms, covers up to 20 kilometers, and features a self-destruct timer with an adjustable detonation time of 30 to 60 hours.
