Ukraine is exploring a new way to move troops into battle, with the country’s government-backed Brave1 innovation platform beginning work on airbikes and air-mobile buggies for frontline missions.
According to Militarnyi, the proposed vehicles are envisioned as optionally unmanned systems capable of autonomously returning after inserting personnel.
If developed, the platforms could support rapid troop insertions and other specialized missions while reducing soldiers’ exposure during movement to frontline positions.
“Technologies have already emerged around the world that make it possible to develop airbikes and airbuggies,” said Andrii Hrytseniuk, director of Brave1.
“This capability would support a range of missions – from rapidly inserting personnel into positions and deploying troops to more specialized applications during special operations.”
The project will be supported through Brave1’s grant funding program.
Emerging Air Mobility Technologies
Airbikes are already beginning to emerge worldwide. One example is Polish firm Volonaut’s jet-powered personal flying vehicle.
Equipped with redundant jet turbines, it reaches speeds of up to 102 kilometers (63 miles) per hour and can remain airborne for up to 10 minutes.
Swedish company Jetson has also developed the Jetson ONE, a single-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Often described as part flying sports car and part drone, it integrates eight high-power motors supported by a propulsion system to deliver substantial output.
With similar systems emerging globally, Ukraine’s initiative could make it one of the first to explore airbikes and air-mobile buggies for military use.
