Russian forces have introduced remotely operated rail carts to transport supplies in the occupied Donetsk region.

In a Telegram post, the Russian Ministry of Defense stated that the cart can carry over a ton of cargo and has a range of up to 50 kilometers.

Footage posted by the Ministry shows troops from the 37th Railway Brigade repairing a track near Pokrovsk, then loading a camouflaged trolley with water and what appears to be ammunition. The cart, operated remotely and fitted with a visible antenna, proceeds down the rail line without onboard personnel.

Russian troops from a 51st Army logistics unit using a remotely controlled rail cart to transport supplies to forward areas in the Pokrovsk direction. Troops from 37th Railway Brigade are tasked with inspecting and repairing the rail lines. The MoD claims the system has a range… pic.twitter.com/ClHjaXycHY

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“The platform stands out not only for its load capacity and speed but also for its endurance,” the ministry said. “Its design is very simple and reliable, requiring no additional suspensions or monitoring systems.”

Russia’s military has long relied on railways for strategic mobility. During World War II, the Soviet Union used rail to relocate entire factories east of the Urals, sustaining its war effort against Nazi Germany. 

“By leveraging existing tracks, Russia minimizes the need for new construction, a costly and time-consuming process under wartime conditions,” Bulgarian Military notes. 

The outlet further reported that the use of remote platforms reflects Russia’s broader push for battlefield automation.

“By reducing the need for manned convoys, they free up personnel for combat roles. Faster deliveries mean artillery units, like the Msta-S, can maintain fire rates without depleting reserves,” says Bulgarian Military.