Ukraine’s first homegrown demining vehicle, the Zmiy, or "Snake," developed by Rovertech, has passed certification testing and is ready to begin clearing minefields at the rate of up to 2.5 hectares per hour, the government said.
The remotely controlled vehicle, developed by Ukrainian company Rovertech, is priced as low as $14,500, or about 85% below the cost of vehicles that do a similar job, the Ukrainian Economy Ministry said in a communique, adding that the cost could fall further upon mass production.
"The Rovertech team has managed to make a lightweight, fast vehicle that can withstand anti-tank mine explosions," said Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. "It is especially important that the machine is made in Ukraine, as it means new jobs, budget revenues and support for the economy."
The Zmiy weighs a tonne, measures 85cm in height, and is designed to work in low and medium vegetation, destroying anti-personnel and anti-tank mines while removing tripwires, according to the company. It is now certified by the State Scientific Research Institute of Armament and Military Equipment.
