She did hair. Now, she does war driving Droid TW robot through dusty frontline terrain in Ukraine

Iryna, 21, who used to give advice on hairstyles and fashion, now operates the state-of-the-art ground robot Droid TW, capable of firing and capturing Russian soldiers. It can engage targets with a machine gun and capture Russian soldiers, the 91st Separate Anti-Tank Battalion reports.

Heavy versions of these ground systems can carry up to 500 kilograms of cargo and traverse tens of kilometers over rough terrain. Their functionality continues to expand: the platforms conduct logistics operations without risking human lives.

As an operator of ground robotic systems in the battalion, she now controls machines that deliver supplies, evacuate the wounded, and carry out missions in the most dangerous zones.

First combat steps and heroic missions: nine kilometers to save a life

After a few months of war, Irina realized she couldn’t stay on the sidelines. Military service introduced her to ground robotic systems.

One of her first missions stands out — evacuating a wounded soldier over a total of 18 kilometers.

“Our ground robot managed to reach him and save his life,” Iryna recalls.

Iryna, the operator of ground drone. Source: Screenshot — *Iryna, the operator of the ground drone. Source: Screenshot*

Women on the frontline: modern technology, courage, and family support

According to Iryna, the role of ground robots at the front is rapidly expanding for logistics, evacuation, and combat tasks.

More women are joining units that work with drones and robots.

“Women can perform tasks on par with men — whether it’s FPV, NRK, or ‘Maviks’,” she says.

Her main source of strength remains her loved ones, for whom she continues her service. To girls considering the military or working with advanced technologies, she advises not to wait for the perfect moment.

“You don’t need to be 100% ready. You just need to be alongside people who already know and can teach you,” says the soldier.

The operator station for ground drones resembles a high-tech command center. She monitors, controls, and maintains the system in real time, using batteries, charging stations, portable power units, and communication systems, including radios, antennas, and relay devices.

Operators like Iryna are also equipped with electronic warfare tools, repair kits, and tactical gear. Each ground platform is fitted with day and night cameras, communication systems, and data links, ensuring effective operation under any conditions.