Ukraine announces first-ever tender for ground robotic systems

Ukraine has issued its inaugural tender for ground robotic systems, according to Ukrinform's report sourced from the Ministry of Defense's press service. The procurement aims to cover two distinct categories of ground robotic systems: logistics platforms for cargo transport, essential supply delivery, and wounded personnel evacuation; and strike systems designed to target specific objectives.

Both types must demonstrate proficiency in navigating difficult terrain, offer dependable remote control, and facilitate video and operational data transmission to operators. Entities offering products aligning with the specified standards and criteria are encouraged to enter the procurement process. Deputy Defense Minister Mstyslav Banik emphasized that the tendering procedure will follow a system that has previously demonstrated success.

He clarified that the ground robotic systems will be categorized into classes based on operational range and payload capacity, with each class comprising four or five lots. Importantly, a single manufacturer will not exceed a half-share of the order within any given class, thereby fostering a competitive environment among manufacturers.

This strategic approach aims to engage multiple manufacturers in supplying the systems, thereby amplifying competition and potentially driving down costs, according to Banik. Ground robotic platforms have long been instrumental on the battlefield, performing tasks that would otherwise be infeasible. Consequently, the Defense Ministry's mandate is to guarantee a steady supply of these systems to the military at a cost-effective price, without compromising on quality, quantity, or delivery timeliness.

The procurement process will be carried out discreetly, adhering to stringent security protocols for defense procurement. As previously noted by Ukrinform, Ukrainian Defense Forces units have utilized ground robotic systems (GRSs) for over 100,000 logistics and evacuation missions this year.