{"id":9061,"date":"2025-08-19T11:19:15","date_gmt":"2025-08-19T08:19:15","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/stage.thedefender.media\/?p=9061"},"modified":"2025-12-11T15:25:23","modified_gmt":"2025-12-11T13:25:23","slug":"ratel-scaled-production","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/stage.thedefender.media\/en\/2025\/08\/ratel-scaled-production\/","title":{"rendered":"Ratel founder Taras Ostapchuk: in one year, the company has increased UGV production almost fivefold"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Ukrainian UGV<\/a> manufacturer Ratel has scaled up its production almost fivefold over the past year. Company founder Taras Ostapchuk revealed this in a factory tour video published on the YouTube channel of Ukraine\u2019s Ground Forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Ostapchuk, Ratel now serially produces several types of UGVs, including the small kamikaze robot Ratel S, the four-wheeled logistics drone Ratel M, and the logistics-evacuation model Ratel H. Currently, the military\u2019s highest demand is for the logistical M and H models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Production starts with processing raw materials: sheet metal is laser-cut, bent into the required shapes, and then welded using laser technology. Each part is numbered, allowing quick replacement in combat conditions based on feedback from troops. Machines run up to 15\u201316 hours a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Components are coated with powder paint for internal use and with Raptor protective coating for the more expensive M and H models. Logistics drones are equipped with tow bars for carrying trailers and loads. In the larger workshop, Ratel M drones are assembled: after frames are painted, they are fitted with body panels, heated batteries, and electronics, ensuring durability and sealing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The soldering workshop produces mainboards and modules, while 3D printers create spare parts for ground stations. Every unit undergoes testing before delivery: each drone covers more than 3 km, all functions are checked, and a test sheet is completed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The enterprise is self-sufficient, with its own nitrogen plant, generators, and backup power supply. Ratel continually upgrades its drones, improving software, chassis, and replacing imported components with in-house solutions. The Ratel S is already in its seventh iteration, while the M and H models are on their fourth to fifth upgrades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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