Ground drones for Ukraine: Netherlands funds more than 150 Themis from Milrem Robotics

More than 150 Themis ground drones are going from Milrem Robotics to Ukraine – unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) whose donation is being funded and coordinated by the Netherlands. The manufacturer assembles and hands over a large share together with VDL Defentec.

The donation had already been announced in September, but without naming the donor. Just a few days ago, Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans, together with Milrem Robotics and VDL, officially named the Netherlands as the sponsor of the initiative – at a signing ceremony at VDL's plant in Born.

Delivery to the Armed Forces of Ukraine is handled by Milrem Robotics Netherlands in close coordination with VDL Defentec. The latter is setting up its own final assembly line for the Themis at its Born site; it is designed to be scalable and can be expanded quickly for future demand.

In addition, Milrem Robotics is comprehensively training Ukrainian operators and technical staff so that the vehicles can be used and maintained efficiently in combat.

Milrem Robotics CEO Kuldar Väärsi said: “We are honoured to lead this project together with the Netherlands and VDL. The Themis system has already proven its value under combat conditions – this donation will noticeably strengthen Ukraine's defence capability”.

VDL Groep CEO Willem van der Leegte added: “This project demonstrates the strength of European industrial cooperation and the ability to scale quickly and thereby contribute directly to international security. The new assembly line in Born also lays the foundation for future production and innovation between Milrem Robotics and VDL in the Netherlands”.

Ground drones with combat experience

The new vehicles add to the existing fleet: Ukraine has been successfully using 15 Themis systems since 2022.

The Themis (Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System) is regarded as one of the most successful unmanned ground vehicles in its class. Its modular design allows a wide range of tasks – supporting dismounted troops, logistics, reconnaissance or combat support. It is currently in use or being tested in 19 countries.