Ukraine to receive 60 demining platforms from Switzerland by mid-2024
Illustrative photo: Swiss mine clearance machines GCS-200 will be transferred to Ukraine (gcs ch)
The Swiss company Global Clearance Solutions (GCS) plans to provide Ukraine with 60 demining platforms as part of assistance. The transfer of robotic equipment will take place by the middle of next year, according to the company's Facebook page.
The personnel will also be trained in operating these machines for remote-controlled demining.
According to the CEO and co-founder of GCS, Philipp von Michaelis, these "state-of-the-art platforms require training and rigourous safety protocols."
The company hopes that this equipment will 'create a safe environment, facilitate civilian recovery, and save lives.
The Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany (BMZ) along with the companies KfW and DEG Impulse are the donors of this aid.
Ukraine's collaboration with GCS
In May, Ukraine's Ministry of Reintegration announced the signing of a memorandum of cooperation with the Swiss manufacturer of mechanized demining equipment, Global Clearance Solutions.
At that time, GCS management announced plans to deliver approximately 20 demining machines to Ukraine during this year.
It's also worth noting that in November, the Swiss company Global Clearance Solutions opened a technical maintenance center in Ukraine. It will be capable of receiving demining platforms and conducting repairs if necessary.
Ukraine's demining efforts
Due to the Russian invasion and active combat, Ukraine has become contaminated with explosive devices. Some analysts consider Ukraine the most heavily mined country in the world.
In late September, Switzerland approved a package of $110 million for demining efforts in Ukraine. These funds will be provided between 2024 and 2027.
Earlier reports also indicated that Norway pledged financial aid for Ukraine's demining efforts, amounting to $18.5 million.
