Russia Debuts Its First Robotic Drilling System for Oil and Gas

A new automated rig system developed in Russia could reshape drilling operations by enhancing safety and performance in extreme environments.

Russia has unveiled its first robotic system for the oil and gas industry. Developed by Uralmash NGO Holding, the new complex was presented in Yekaterinburg and is designed to automate tripping operations on drilling rigs.

The system, known as RKSPО, handles drill pipes autonomously, reducing the physical burden on workers and minimizing human involvement in hazardous operations. Its standout feature is an electric drive, which makes it reliable even in the severe cold of the Arctic—an advantage over many hydraulic-based foreign models.

The technology integrates hardware with proprietary software that unifies all rig components into a single operating system. It is compatible with both new and existing platforms, making it a flexible upgrade for oil companies.

According to Uralmash, RKSPО significantly boosts safety and efficiency on-site, while improving working conditions for crew members. The system reflects a broader move in Russia’s extractive sector to embrace intelligent automation.