The War Museum has acquired a new exhibit of modern warfare – the Ratel H ground robotic system.
The system was personally donated to the Museum by Taras Ostapchuk, the company’s CEO and founder. While serving in the military, he recognized the potential of robotic systems in modern warfare and now actively advances this field, implementing new technological solutions in the area of ground unmanned systems and drones.
The platform now in the Museum’s collection has itself been deployed in combat. In the autumn of 2025, Ratel entered service and, from October to January, carried out logistical missions primarily in the Siversk area as part of the RAROG unit.
All critical components of the system are specially sealed to ensure it remains operational under various damage scenarios,” said Mr. Ostapchuk. During this time, the platform completed approximately 15 missions and transported over 9 tonnes of cargo.
The enemy tried to destroy it three times, but each time it reached its destination. It was then repaired in the field and returned to service.
During one mission, Ratel was hit by an enemy FPV drone: the hull was damaged, and the camera and infrared illumination were disabled. Ahead lay more than 2 km of difficult terrain, the threat of mines, and almost no visibility — essentially moving blindly. But the vehicle made it back.
At the starting point, the cargo was quickly transferred to another Ratel H, which completed the mission. The unit received what it needed and continued carrying out its combat tasks.
Today, this object is part of the Museum’s collection. It is not only an example of technology, but also a testament to work that usually remains out of the public eye.
“We create these machines for use on the front line. At the same time, after their service, they should become part of collective memory, helping people understand how this war is fought and at what cost every action is carried out,” said Taras Ostapchuk.
“Such exhibits enable the Museum to speak about modern warfare in a precise and substantive way — through technologies that function on the battlefield and through the experiences of those who work with them,” said Yurii Savchuk, Director General of the War Museum.
The system will play an important role in the future museum project “Museum of Modern Military Technologies.” We are raising funds to create this space. Here, exhibits like these will form the foundation for telling the story of the current war. Your support for this initiative will make a meaningful contribution to preserving the memory of historical events unfolding in real time.
