Ukraine's first drone-evacuated soldier takes first steps on prosthetic legs

Kostiantyn Vlasenko, a Ukrainian serviceman and newly appointed Hero of Ukraine, has taken his first steps on prosthetic legs. Vlasenko, who goes by the callsign Magura, holds the distinction of being the first person in history to be extracted from a combat position using a drone. The milestone was announced by the Superhumans Center, a rehabilitation facility that specializes in supporting wounded veterans.

According to the center, Vlasenko began using his prostheses just two weeks after arriving for treatment. The rapid progress has been met with enthusiasm by the soldier, who expressed excitement about his new mobility. He stated that he is now ready to splash through puddles and noted the surprising height he gains from the devices. Vlasenko remarked on the immediate urge to move, asking if he could walk a little bit and expressing a desire to start walking immediately.

The soldier revealed that he had been dreaming of walking on prostheses since the day he was admitted to the hospital. He described himself as a little impatient during the process. Vlasenko noted that if his physical condition had permitted, he would have walked to the rehabilitation center himself the very next day after his arrival.

Vlasenko’s path to recovery followed a harrowing experience on the Kupiansk front. He spent nearly 500 days in the grey zone, a contested area between opposing forces. In February 2026, while moving to a backup location, he sustained severe injuries. During this incident, one of his fellow soldiers went missing. Vlasenko’s injuries were so significant that he had to amputate his own feet in the field, which initially made it impossible for him to return to his own lines.

Despite his severe condition, Vlasenko continued to carry out combat missions. He engaged in covert observation of Russian forces while maintaining his position. His resilience and quick thinking were crucial during the subsequent rescue operation, which marked a new chapter in military medical logistics.

In October, the Ukrainian defense forces executed the first-ever medical evacuation of a wounded soldier using a heavy unmanned aerial vehicle. Vlasenko spent less than an hour and a half in the air during the flight. The drone covered a distance of 16 kilometers to transport him to safety. This operation demonstrated the growing capability of unmanned systems in supporting frontline troops.

Alex, the reconnaissance chief overseeing UAV operations for the 2nd Mechanised Battalion where Vlasenko served, praised the soldier’s composure. Alex explained that the team had already dropped off equipment and instructions prior to the arrival of the rescue drone. When the quadcopter approached, Vlasenko followed the instructions precisely and quickly. Alex noted that there was no panic or hesitation, and the entire procedure took only seconds, going exactly to plan.

Following his extraction, Vlasenko was transported to a hospital for further treatment. The president of Ukraine later conferred the title of Hero of Ukraine upon him in recognition of his bravery and service. The story of his recovery and the innovative rescue operation has become a symbol of adaptability and resilience in the ongoing conflict.

The Superhumans Center continues to document the progress of veterans like Vlasenko. Their efforts highlight the importance of advanced rehabilitation techniques and modern technology in helping soldiers regain independence and quality of life after severe injuries sustained in combat.

Vlasenko’s journey from the front lines to the rehabilitation center underscores the evolving nature of warfare and medical support in Ukraine. His ability to take these first steps represents a significant personal victory and a testament to the support systems now available to wounded servicemembers.