Poland’s P.H.U. Lechmar and France’s H2X-Defense have collaborated on a new unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) that runs on hydrogen fuel cells and can refuel in just three minutes.
Named Hermione, the wheeled platform stores hydrogen in high-pressure cylinders certified to European safety standards and draws additional power from 25-kilowatt batteries.
Propulsion comes from electric hub motors, each rated at 8 kilowatts, providing torque and distributing power across the vehicle’s wheels.
The UGV can operate for up to 20 hours, reach speeds of 24 miles (39 kilometers) per hour, and navigate rough terrain with all-wheel drive with multiple steering modes.
The demonstrator presented in Kielce was in a drone-carrier configuration, offering a payload capacity of 300 kilograms (661 pounds). While the specific drone types it can support have not been disclosed, the capacity suggests flexibility for a range of aerial systems.
Other Hermione models are designed for medium- and heavy-lift roles, capable of carrying 600 kilograms (1,323 pounds) and up to 2 tons (1,814 kilograms) of cargo.
Shape and Purpose
The UGV comes in at 3.3 meters (10.8 feet) long, 1.85 meters (6 feet) wide, and 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) high. The curb weight is listed at 700 kilograms (1,543 pounds).
The relatively compact frame, along with a 300-millimeter ground clearance, is designed to balance payload capacity with mobility across challenging terrain. Its proportions also allow transportability for wider battlefield use.
Built around a modular layout, Hermione can be reconfigured for multiple roles. Options range from logistics support and reconnaissance to mounting remote-controlled weapon systems.
Expanding Capabilities
Founded in 2004 and licensed since 2014, P.H.U. Lechmar focuses on procurement, delivery, and logistics of military equipment. Its portfolio spans conventional weapons, artillery, vehicles, and dual-use products.
The company’s collaboration with H2X-Defense highlights the growing role of Poland’s private sector in the defense industry, particularly in energy and mobility solutions.
Alongside the Hermione UGV, the French firm also unveiled the G-15/050 hydrogen-powered field generator, offered in 20 and 40 kilowatt models, designed as a complementary power source for unmanned platforms.
