Estonian Firm Milrem Robotics to Supply Over 150 THeMIS Unmanned Vehicles to Ukraine in Dutch-Funded Package

Major Unmanned Vehicle Delivery to Ukraine Confirmed

Estonian robotics and autonomous systems developer Milrem Robotics is set to supply over 150 THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) to Ukraine. This substantial delivery is part of a defense package funded and coordinated by the Netherlands, marking one of Europe's largest military robotics donations to Ukraine since the onset of the full-scale invasion. The agreement was formally announced on October 6, 2025, during a signing ceremony held at the VDL factory in Born, Netherlands.

The initiative involves close cooperation with the Dutch company VDL Defentec, which will handle a significant portion of the vehicles' assembly at its facility in Born. Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans, along with Milrem Robotics and VDL representatives, attended the official announcement. The donation was initially reported in September, though the contributing country was not disclosed at that time.

THeMIS UGVs: Enhancing Battlefield Capabilities

The THeMIS (Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System) is a multi-role UGV designed to support dismounted troops and enhance battlefield efficiency. These vehicles are intended to reduce risks to human lives by performing dangerous tasks remotely. The new units will complement the 15 THeMIS vehicles already in operation in Ukraine since 2022, which have demonstrated their effectiveness in combat conditions.

The THeMIS platform's open architecture allows for versatile configurations, including:

• Logistics support and last-mile resupply
• Casualty evacuation (CASEVAC)
• Reconnaissance and intelligence gathering
• Combat support roles, including remote weapon stations and anti-tank missile systems
• Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and demining operations

The UGV has a payload capacity of 750 kg, with a maximum of 1,200 kg, and can reach speeds of up to 20 km/h. It can operate for up to 15 hours with a full fuel tank or 90 minutes on battery in silent mode. Milrem Robotics will also provide comprehensive training for Ukrainian operators and maintenance personnel to ensure effective deployment and servicing of the THeMIS systems.

European Cooperation in Defense Production

Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics, stated, 'We are honoured to lead this project in partnership with the Netherlands and VDL. The THeMIS platform has already demonstrated its value under combat conditions, and we believe this contribution will materially strengthen Ukraine's defence capability.' Willem van der Leegte, CEO of VDL Groep, highlighted that this initiative underscores the strength of cooperation within Europe's defense industry and its capacity to scale up production to meet urgent security needs.

The assembly line being established at VDL's Born facility is designed for scalability, allowing for future expansion to meet potential additional requirements. Milrem Robotics, founded in Tallinn, Estonia, in 2013, is a leading developer of robotics and autonomous systems and has its systems in service in 19 countries worldwide.