Discover the Goliath tracks, a remarkable piece of military history from World War II, found in Northern France.
Originally developed by German engineers after the discovery of a French prototype, the Goliath was designed as a remote-controlled demolition vehicle capable of carrying significant explosive payloads. The Goliath, known as Leichter Ladungsträger Goliath (SdKfz 302), was a compact yet powerful device that could transport up to 60 kg of explosives. It was operated via a joystick connected by a 650-meter cable, allowing operators to guide it toward enemy fortifications, tanks, and other strategic targets from a safe distance. The vehicle's maximum speed was approximately 9.5 km/h, and it was designed for single-use, detonating upon reaching its target.
Despite its innovative design, the Goliath faced numerous challenges on the battlefield, including vulnerability to gunfire and difficulties traversing rugged terrain. Only 7,564 units were produced, and while they were deployed in various theaters of war, including Normandy and the Warsaw Uprising, their effectiveness was often limited.
Today, the Goliath tracked mine serves as a fascinating example of early unmanned combat technology and the evolution of military drones.