European Country Places Record Order for THeMIS Ground Robots for Ukraine

A European country has placed a record order with Milrem Robotics to supply THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles for Ukraine.

Ukraine already operates a limited number of THeMIS multipurpose robots, using them for tasks such as combat logistics, casualty evacuation, and route clearance.

While the details of the order have not been disclosed, it is the largest-ever THeMIS contract, according to Estonian outlet Baltic Sentinel, which cited Milrem CEO Kuldar Väärsi.

Moreover, it represents the second-largest order globally for an unmanned ground vehicle in this class, which has a payload capacity of 600 to 1,000 kilograms (1,323 to 2,205 pounds), he added.

The largest to date was the US Army’s 2019 contract with General Dynamics for 624 “robot mules” under the Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport program.

Deliveries are expected to commence by the end of 2025, with the contract designed to scale for future additional requirements.

The deal also includes training for Ukrainian operators to ensure sustained operational readiness.

THeMIS UGV

Ukraine has employed the platform since the early phases of the war, primarily for tasks such as casualty evacuation and route clearance.

The platform can reach speeds of up to 50 kilometers (37 miles) per hour and operate for as long as eight hours. 

It can be fitted with weapons such as machine guns and anti-tank missiles to engage lightly armored vehicles. 

Earlier in August, Milrem demonstrated the integration of a Ukrainian-made remote weapon station with the THeMIS. 

The BURIA system, developed by Frontline, is armed with a 40mm automatic grenade launcher capable of engaging targets at ranges of up to 1,100 meters (3,609 feet).