The Netherlands has made a significant commitment to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities by announcing that it will donate over 150 THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs). Initially revealed in September, the donor country was not disclosed until now. The first deliveries are set to commence by the end of 2025, with production and logistics supported by Milrem Robotics Netherlands, in collaboration with the Dutch defense manufacturer VDL Defentec.
In response to this initiative, VDL Defentec is setting up a dedicated final assembly line at their facility in Born, which is aimed at facilitating expanded production capabilities and addressing future logistical needs. This strategic move underscores the ongoing cooperation in Europe’s defense industry. Willem van der Leegte, CEO of VDL Groep, emphasized the importance of scaling up efforts for international security through partnerships. He noted that this assembly line will not only support the current donation but also lay the groundwork for future innovations and collaborations between Milrem Robotics and VDL.
The THeMIS UGV adds to the existing operational framework in Ukraine, where 15 units have been in service since 2022. The current donation represents the largest THeMIS contract to date and the second-largest order globally for UGVs in its class. With a robust payload capacity ranging from 600 to 1,000 kilograms and a top speed of 50 kilometers per hour, these versatile platforms can operate for up to eight hours.
Designed with modularity in mind, the THeMIS can be tailored for various operational missions, including support for dismounted forces, logistics, reconnaissance, and combat assistance. The capability to arm the UGV with machine guns or anti-tank missiles enhances its tactical versatility, allowing it to engage lightly armored vehicles effectively. In its deployments within Ukraine, the THeMIS has primarily facilitated casualty evacuations and route clearance operations.
Currently employed by 19 countries, the THeMIS is recognized as the most widely deployed unmanned ground vehicle in its category. Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics, expressed pride in leading this partnership project with the Netherlands and VDL. He highlighted that the THeMIS platform has proven itself under combat conditions, suggesting this substantial contribution will significantly enhance Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
