After Historic Drone Evacuation, Ukrainian Hero Kostyantyn Vlasenko Takes First Steps on Prosthetics

The Journey of Kostyantyn Vlasenko

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Kostyantyn Vlasenko, honored as a Hero of Ukraine, made history as the first soldier to be evacuated from the front lines using an aerial drone. Severely wounded in both legs during his service at the 'Vertun' fire position, Vlasenko took his initial steps on prosthetic limbs just two weeks after beginning rehabilitation at the Superhumans center. He held his position at 'Vertun' near the village of Synkivka on the Kharkiv front from June 3, 2025, until February 15, 2026, completing 491 days of duty, 232 of which he served alone.

Evacuation and Medical Care

The 'Vertun' position was destroyed on February 15, 2026, following an assault by Russian drones and artillery. Gravely injured by gunfire to both legs, Vlasenko was forced to amputate one leg himself, while gangrene led to the loss of the foot on the other. During the retreat from the position, one of his comrades went missing, while Vlasenko administered first aid to himself near a local school.

On October 19, 2026, Vlasenko was evacuated via a heavy hexacopter developed by the Ukrainian company Gurzuf Defence. He was then transported to the Northern Regional Military Medical Clinical Center in Kharkiv, where doctors stabilized his condition over several days before performing multiple surgeries.

President Volodymyr Zelensky awarded Kostyantyn Vlasenko the title of Hero of Ukraine on October 31, 2026. Vlasenko serves with the 30th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after Prince Kostyantyn Ostrozkyi.

“Now I’m ready to splash through puddles. Wow, how high these steps are. Awesome. Can I walk a little? I want to get moving.”

Kostyantyn Vlasenko

This remarkable story highlights not only Vlasenko’s extraordinary courage but also the transformative role of cutting-edge technology in modern warfare. The use of drones for evacuating wounded soldiers may well become a new standard, revolutionizing battlefield medical care. Vlasenko embodies the unbreakable spirit of Ukrainian troops who continue to defend their nation’s freedom despite the horrors of war.

Vlasenko's remarkable journey does not end with his recovery. His bravery and resilience during his 491 days of service have been recognized with the prestigious title of Hero of Ukraine. For a deeper understanding of his courageous stand and the challenges he faced, read more about the honor he received after enduring severe injuries.