German defense firms have pushed another combat robot closer to frontline deployment after successfully launching anti-tank missiles from a compact unmanned tracked vehicle during recent live-fire exercises.

The trials involved the Ziesel robotic platform developed by Diehl Defence and the SPIKE LR guided missile produced by RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems in partnership with EuroSpike GmbH. Engineers carried out the test campaign over several days and fired 17 missiles from the small unmanned vehicle.

The demonstrations focused less on missile accuracy and more on whether the lightweight robotic carrier could survive the physical punishment created by repeated launches. Small unmanned ground vehicles often struggle with heavy weapon integration because missile recoil can damage suspension systems, electronics, or vehicle frames.

According to Diehl Defence, the Ziesel completed the firing sequence without major mechanical issues.

Remote battlefield firepower

The project reflects a broader shift in military planning across Europe and NATO countries. Defense companies increasingly want robotic vehicles to handle dangerous frontline tasks traditionally assigned to infantry crews or armored units.

Instead of placing soldiers near exposed anti-tank positions, armies could send smaller unmanned systems forward to engage enemy armor from protected locations. Military planners see that concept as especially relevant after lessons from Ukraine, where drones and remote-operated systems now shape daily combat operations.

The Ziesel platform originally entered development as a support vehicle for transport and casualty evacuation missions. Engineers later adapted the machine for combat operations by integrating missile launch systems and autonomous control technologies.

Missile platform survives stress

During the tests, the robotic vehicle launched SPIKE LR missiles while engineers monitored structural strain across the chassis and onboard systems. The company said the platform maintained stability and mobility throughout the trials.

That result matters because compact tracked vehicles face strict limits on payload weight and shock absorption. Even a successful missile launch can destabilize smaller robotic systems if engineers fail to distribute force properly.

The SPIKE LR missile gives the vehicle long-range anti-armor capability. The weapon remains widely used among NATO members and allied militaries because of its flexibility against tanks, fortified positions, and moving targets.

Operators can engage threats from several miles away using electro-optical guidance systems. The missile also supports fire-and-forget targeting modes while allowing operators to update target data during flight.

Autonomous combat systems

Diehl Defence equipped the latest Ziesel version with upgraded hardware and revised control software compared with earlier prototypes. The vehicle also uses the company’s PLATON autonomy package, which supports autonomous navigation and remote battlefield operations.

The company said several armed forces, including Germany and Ukraine, are already evaluating the robotic vehicle for different operational missions.

The successful firing campaign adds momentum to efforts aimed at pairing autonomous ground systems with precision-guided weapons. Defense manufacturers across the United States and Europe are racing to develop smaller robotic combat platforms capable of operating in high-risk zones without exposing troops directly to enemy fire.