The finalists of the "Sapper’s Hands" innovation marathon presented their developments at Security 2.0.

The participating teams of the "Sapper’s Hands" marathon showcased innovative robotic solutions that could radically reshape the future of humanitarian demining.At the same time, the team of Ukraine’s only R&D hub in the mine action sector conducted field tests of laser-based systems capable of remotely neutralizing explosive devices weighing up to 500 grams.

The demonstration session “Fire Safety and Emergency Management” took place as part of the SECURITY 2.0 exhibition at KyivExpoPlaza. This large-scale event consistently brings together experts and innovators in the field of security.

At the Security 2.0 exhibition, the teams presented:

– A decentralized manufacturing network for airless wheels designed for various unmanned ground systems
– A new class of micro-robots — portable demining drones equipped with modular mounts for remote explosive ordnance disposal
– A hydro-blaster drone capable of remotely neutralizing improvised or shell-less explosive devices
– Robotic arms "Deminer's Hand" — remote-controlled sapper tools that attach to mini drones and feature interchangeable “fingers” such as clamps, blades, and more; lightweight and easy to operate
– Mobile robotic platforms and manipulators with remote control and integrated sensor systems

The “Sapper’s Hands” Innovation Marathon is a unique platform for developers, engineers, and startups working on cutting-edge robotic solutions for humanitarian demining. Participants went through a challenging journey from concept to working prototype, showcasing technologies that can save the lives of deminers and make clearance operations faster and safer.

The Security 2.0 exhibition provided a valuable opportunity to explore future technologies and foster exchange between developers, experts, and deminers. Experts highlighted the remarkably high level of engineering innovation and creativity demonstrated by each team as they developed effective robotic platforms, manipulators, and AI-driven solutions for handling explosive ordnance.

The Ukrainian Demining Cluster is firmly committed to supporting young teams, tech startups, researchers, engineering students, and developers of robotic solutions. In July, the most promising innovations will be selected for implementation and scaling.

The future of humanitarian demining lies in innovation.
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