Ziesel Spike LR Fired From German UGV

Ziesel Spike LR firing marks Germany’s first missile launch from the Ziesel unmanned ground vehicle.

Ziesel Spike LR Test Advances German UGV Plans

Germany fired a Spike LR missile from the Ziesel unmanned ground vehicle for the first time.

The missile comes from Israel-based Rafael. Meanwhile, EuroSpike GmbH joined the test as an Israel-Germany joint venture.

Ziesel Spike LR Trial Included 17 Missile Launches

The test campaign lasted five days. During that period, the team fired 17 missiles.

Diehl Defence officials assessed the integration and field performance. Additionally, they said the system showed impressive performance and resisted mission challenges.

Enforce Tac 2025 Debut Set The Timeline

According to The Jerusalem Post, tests began three months after the platform’s public showcase.

The Ziesel UGV appeared at Enforce Tac in Nuremberg, Germany, in 2025. Therefore, the fast missile trial showed strong programme pace.

Germany’s 2039 Goals Add Strategic Weight

The rapid move from display to field firing fits Germany’s 2039 targets.

More importantly, it shows Berlin’s growing focus on armed unmanned systems. Consequently, Germany can test new ground combat ideas faster.

Ziesel UGV Design And Core Role

Hentschel and Diehl Defence developed the Ziesel unmanned ground vehicle.

At first, the platform served logistics and casualty evacuation roles. However, its latest form can support both defence and attack missions.

Compact Size Supports Field Use

The Ziesel measures 1.6 metres in length. It also measures 1.3 metres in width.

The vehicle can reach 20 km/h. Moreover, earlier tests showed it can follow military personnel autonomously.

Electric Mode And Low-Noise Scout Role

The platform can also operate in full electric mode.

Its 11 kWh lithium-ion battery supports a low noise profile. Because of this, the Ziesel can conduct scout tasks with less acoustic risk.

PLATON Gives Autonomous Movement

The PLATON navigation system helps the vehicle move fully autonomously.

At the same time, Spike LR adds active engagement power. As a result, Ziesel gains a direct anti-armour role.

Long-Range Engagement From Unmanned Ground Systems

Missile integration on UGVs can change anti-tank combat.

For example, systems like Ziesel can fire at armoured units from distance. Therefore, troops can stay away from direct danger.

Spike Missile Family Adds Flexibility

The Spike missile family includes short-range SR and medium/long-range MR/LR versions.

It also includes extended-range ER and beyond-line-of-sight NLOS profiles. Furthermore, the family supports target updates during flight.

Strategic Insight

This Ziesel Spike LR firing gives Germany a low-risk path to armed ground robotics.

Instead of exposing soldiers, commanders can push firepower forward through unmanned platforms. Consequently, anti-armour teams gain distance, speed, and protection.

However, the wider value sits in flexible mission use. The same vehicle can support logistics, casualty evacuation, scout tasks, and strike roles.

Moreover, Germany and Ukraine already test the platform. This gives the system real wartime and field relevance.