Strategic Defense Support from the Netherlands
The Dutch company Milrem Robotics will supply more than 150 THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) to Ukraine as part of a new defense initiative funded and coordinated by the Government of the Netherlands.
According to the company, the delivery will take place under a bilateral defense assistance program designed to strengthen Ukraine’s ground-force capabilities through advanced autonomous systems.
Production and Assembly in the Netherlands
A significant share of the vehicles will be assembled in partnership with VDL Defentec, a leading Dutch defense-technology firm.
To meet the order, VDL Defentec is establishing a dedicated final-assembly line at its facility in Born, the Netherlands, ensuring rapid and scalable production.
“The donation was first announced in September, but the donor country was not disclosed. Now it is confirmed that the Netherlands is financing the project,” — Milrem Robotics reported.
Training and Field Support for Ukrainian Operators
Milrem Robotics will also provide comprehensive training programs for Ukrainian operators and maintenance specialists.
The courses will cover tactical deployment, repair, and field servicing of THeMIS vehicles to ensure maximum operational efficiency on the battlefield.
The company emphasized that its integrated training and support package is intended to ensure long-term usability and independence of Ukrainian personnel in operating the robotic platforms.
Background: THeMIS UGV
The THeMIS (Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System) is a multi-role unmanned ground vehicle designed for logistics support, reconnaissance, casualty evacuation, and remote weapon integration.
The platform can operate autonomously or via remote control, providing high mobility and reduced risk to soldiers in combat zones.
THeMIS systems are already in service with several NATO members and have been combat-tested in Ukraine, where they assist in evacuating the wounded and transporting ammunition under fire.
Significance for Ukraine
This large-scale delivery marks one of the biggest European contributions of ground robotics to Ukraine’s defense effort.
It reflects the deepening cooperation between Kyiv and The Hague and underscores the Netherlands’ role as a leader in high-tech defense assistance.
