Ukraine deploys drone technology for safer waterways
Ukraine has received 16 Deep Tracker Revolution drones, designed to assist in the removal of mines from bodies of water. It is estimated that approximately 138,000 square kilometres of Ukrainian territory may be tainted with mines and unexploded ordnance, including about 13,500 square kilometres of rivers, lakes, and marine areas.
Ukraine has acquired 16 cutting-edge Deep Tracker Revolution drones, intended to enhance underwater demining efforts. According to the Ministry of Economy, these drones were purchased by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with funding from South Korea, France, and New Zealand.
Advanced equipment to aid demining
According to the United24 Media portal, the devices are equipped with 4K cameras and dual sonar systems, allowing for precise underwater inspections. Powered by lithium-ion batteries, they can operate for up to three hours. A fast-charging system and swappable batteries enable continuous use by rescue teams.
Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine, Ihor Bezkaravainyi, highlighted the importance of these drones as "the eyes of sappers underwater." The drones are vital for safety as they provide new capabilities for detecting wartime remnants in bodies of water.
Mariia Guttsman from UNDP emphasised that innovation is crucial in humanitarian demining. Traditional methods are insufficient, which is why UNDP is implementing modern solutions, such as technology based on artificial intelligence.
Currently, 31 certified diver-sappers have completed training with the new equipment and will soon commence full-scale operations nationwide. Since the beginning of Russia's invasion, the number of accredited divers-sappers has increased from 192 to over 500.
