Milrem Robotics and the Ukrainian Defence Industry will jointly develop next-generation multi-domain robotic systems. The agreement, signed during the First Defense Industries Forum (DFNC1) in Kyiv, details several development and manufacturing activities between Milrem Robotics and UDI’s members.

As a first step, the parties will start strategic cooperation in identifying Ukraine’s requirements and use cases for robotic systems which can enhance the capabilities of Ukraine’s armed units in the ongoing war and after the war. Thereafter the companies involved will integrate Ukraine’s battlefield experience into Milrem Robotics’ existing robotic and autonomous systems and develop new products to create Ukraine’s manned and unmanned multi-domain capabilities.

“This unfortunate war in Ukraine has made it clear that unmanned and robotic systems have an important role on battlefield and this role will increase in time,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics. “The main goal is to protect troops and to keep warfighters safe, but at the same time provide stronger and an asymmetric effect on the aggressor’s forces. We are honoured to cooperate with UDI to develop and manufacture robotic systems which help Ukraine win this war.” 

“Currently, Ukraine is gaining unique experience in defence tech, and we are ready to share this knowledge with our partners. We aim to deepen our cooperation with leading high-tech international companies to build the arsenal of the free world together,” said Oleksandr Kamyshin, Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine. 

Ukrainian defence developers and manufacturers will integrate defence technologies such as weapon systems, electronic warfare and mine-clearing equipment with Milrem’s robotic vehicles to meet the requirements of the armed forces.

Additionally, the parties will look into manufacturing THeMIS Combat (with HMG and anti-tank capabilities), Combat Engineering (mine detection and demining), CASEVAC unmanned ground vehicles and other Milrem Robotics’ products in Ukraine and engineering cooperation in designing a wheeled Robotic Combat Vehicle.

Milrem Robotics has already delivered 15 THeMIS Unmanned Ground Vehicles to Ukraine to support logistics, casualty evacuation and route clearance operations. It is known for its THeMIS and Multiscope UGVs, the Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle and the MIFIK autonomy kit.

UDI, which was transformed into a joint-stock company this summer, is a strategic manufacturer of weapons and military equipment in Ukraine and unites state-owned defence companies employing around 67,000 highly qualified employees.