European demining machine makers boost shipments to Ukraine
Photo: European demining machine makers ramp up deliveries to Ukraine (me.gov.ua)
Leading European makers of mechanized demining machines – Croatia’s DOK-ING and Switzerland-based GCS – have increased the number of machines operating in Ukraine to 135, according to the press service of Ukraine's Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture.
The machines from these companies are used by specialists from the State Emergency Service, the State Special Transport Service, the National Police, the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as international NGOs.
By the end of the year, the number of remotely controlled demining machines from these two companies reached 135 units – this is 45% of the entire fleet of such specialized equipment operating in Ukraine. Specifically, this includes 76 GCS-200 and GCS-100 machines and 69 DOK-ING MV-10 and DOK-ING MV-4 machines.
As noted by the ministry, both companies are expanding their capacities for equipment repair and maintenance. In particular, last year GCS opened a service center in Kyiv, which accelerated the repair and restoration of machines, and also carried out over a hundred field deployments.
The company DOK-ING, together with the local partner A3-Tech, achieved a 30% level of production localization, expanding local production of spare parts, repair, and assembly of equipment.
In autumn, Ukrainian and Croatian specialists restored a DOK-ING MV-10 machine in record time after it was damaged by a Russian Lancet drone strike.
The Ministry of Economy added that both companies plan to increase the level of localization this year. Specifically, DOK-ING intends to raise this indicator from 30% to 50%, while GCS is developing partnerships with domestic manufacturers, emphasizing the importance of developing production of complex high-tech equipment in Ukraine.
Demining Ukraine
It is worth recalling that earlier reports indicated Ukraine needs $29.8 billion for demining territories affected by the war. However, the need has decreased thanks to progress in clearing Ukrainian lands of mines and shells.
Earlier, the Ministry of Defense also reported that Ukraine will receive €700 million from Western partners for demining equipment. The funds are planned to be provided by 2034.
In addition, the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine initiated the creation of a testing ground for new demining methods. At the new site, the ministry intends to test innovations in demining, including AI-based methods, and to exchange experience with international partners.
The 2026 Demining Capability Coalition plans to allocate at least €165 million to supply Ukraine with equipment and machinery.
