Innovative technologies for humanitarian demining: testing in Kharkiv region

A demonstration test of innovative sensor technologies for humanitarian demining was recently held in Kharkiv region. These technologies are designed for remote detection of mines and other explosive objects (EOAs), which is an important step in combating mine risk in liberated territories. This was reported by the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine.

Four Ukrainian companies took part in the tests: UADamage, Postup, Ailand Systems and Transient Technologies. Each of these companies presented its own improved systems that use magnetometers, infrared and optical cameras, as well as artificial intelligence to detect explosive objects. One of the significant achievements was the first-ever testing of ground-penetrating radar technology to search for both metal and non-metal mines.

Project Manager for Innovations of the Mine Action Support Team at the Ministry of Economy, Kateryna Drozd, emphasized that such testing is important for creating a reliable base that will confirm the effectiveness of the latest technologies. Based on the test results, a number of standard operating procedures will be developed, which will allow these innovations to be implemented in the humanitarian demining process in practice.

"These technologies will significantly increase the efficiency of demining and reduce the time required to detect explosive objects. This will allow for the widespread use of methods for remote detection of mines and other dangerous objects," Drozd noted.

In addition, the tests in the Kharkiv region were a significant step in the development of technologies that use artificial intelligence to detect EOD in real time. The teams participating in the testing demonstrated advanced systems that are capable of analyzing and detecting threats without delay. In particular, the team working with ground-penetrating radars demonstrated the ability to detect anti-tank mines even when they are buried under a layer of soil.

It is worth noting that innovative technologies used in humanitarian demining are of great importance not only for the safety of local residents, but also for the efficiency of national authorities in conducting demining. They significantly reduce the risks for sappers and increase the efficiency of the entire operation.

In the future, the Mine Action Coordination Center under the Kharkiv Regional Military Administration plans to involve these technologies in the survey and demining of the territories of the region. The creation of the Working Group on the Development of Advanced Demining Systems aims to improve demining processes, which is an important stage in restoring security in the liberated territories.