Local Ukrainian Company Unveils New, Cheaper De-Mining Machine

XTI Engineering’s HART 5100, he latest in a new fleet of domestically produced de-mining machines. (Photo credit: Ukrinform)

Ukrainian engineering company XTI Engineering has unveiled a new de-mining tractor, the latest in a new trend of domestic manufacturing: Three years ago, the country produced no equipment to remove land mines. Now there are many kinds from several local producers.

XTI Engineering’s HART 5100 remotely operated system, made with 80% local components, is significantly more affordable than foreign alternatives, the company said.

“A year ago, I visited the plant where these machines are made,” said First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko, as reported by state-media Ukrinform.

“Back then, it was just an idea. Today, it’s a finished product already working in the field. Mass production is ahead,” she added. “And this is not just the story of one manufacturer. It’s a sign of how fast the entire sector is developing. In 2022, Ukraine had no domestic de-mining machines. Now, there are nearly a dozen manufacturers producing various types of machines and equipment.”

Ukraine still receives such equipment from foreign partners. Ukrinform also reported on Wednesday that Estonian developer of robotics and autonomous systems, Milrem Robotics, has sold six “THeMIS” unmanned ground vehicles to the French company CNIM Systèmes Industriels, which will in turn deliver them to Ukraine, thanks to funding via the French government.

Source: www.kyivpost.com