by JASSEM AL SALAMI

A new propaganda video from an Iraqi Shi’ite militia depicts ground combat robots in Iraq.

Yep, Iran’s proxies have killer ground robots.

The video, dated March 23, shows two remotely-operated ground vehicles moving and firing their weapons. One has a 7.62-millimeter PKM machine gun, and the other packs a heavier 12.7 x 108-millimeter DShK machine gun.

It’s not hard to spot who’s responsible. Prominent flags with the symbol of Saraya Al Salam — or the Peace Brigades — fly from each robot. The group is a Shi’ite militia with close ties to Iraqi cleric Muqtada Al Sadr.

During the brief video, an operator moves and remotely fires the robots’ weapons by way of a tablet computer. The PKM-armed robot also has an extendable arm, which appears to probe into the ground — presumably demonstrating its ability to inspect improvised explosives.

The U.S. has developed various ground combat robots over the years, and even briefly deployed them to Iraq. But Iranian-backed Shi’ite militias might have fewer reservations about using them.

The vehicles are somewhat crude. They appear to use commercial security cameras with LED flashlights — instead of military-grade optics that can overcome haze, recognize targets and acquire data for precise engagements.

Compared to aerial drones, UGVs have limited range, endurance and a narrow field-of-view. Their machine guns also pack a relatively light punch.

But they’re still useful. UGVs can scout narrow alleyways in cities, enter houses to attack snipers and inspect for booby-traps. They can cover checkpoints or act as mobile watch dogs. They can perform critical tasks without needing immense supplies.