The Danish Ministry of Defence’s Material and Procurement Agency (FMI) has taken a significant step forward by acquiring the army’s first unmanned land vehicles. This announcement was made in a recent press release from FMI.
These advanced vehicles are set to undergo rigorous testing, aimed at evaluating their technical capabilities and identifying any potential limitations. The procurement includes models from both Estonian and British suppliers, showcasing a collaboration that underscores international defense partnerships.
Once delivered, these vehicles will be assigned to the Service Branch Department for combat troops stationed in Slagelse. Their primary role will be to transport essential supplies—such as ammunition, food, and medical resources—directly to the front lines, all while minimizing risks to soldiers in the field.
Among the new acquisitions is the Estonian THeMIS, which, equipped with rubber tracks and weighing in at 1,600 kilograms, boasts an impressive payload capacity of up to 1,200 kilograms. With a purposeful design allowing travel over various terrains, it can cover distances of up to 200 kilometers. Plans are also in place to arm the THeMIS platform with a light machine gun in the future.
On the British side, the ordered vehicle, known as the MFP-1, presents a more lightweight option. Weighing only 25 kilograms, this small unit is portable enough to be lifted by a single individual while capable of transporting loads exceeding its own weight—up to 35 kilograms. Moreover, it can reach speeds of 60 kilometers per hour and is powered by a battery with a range of 30 kilometers.
“Initially, it is purely for observation,” stated Jakob, a case manager within FMI’s Land Division, who chose to remain anonymous in the announcement. Equipped with sophisticated cameras and sensors, these unmanned vehicles are designed to gather intelligence safely from a distance.
Importantly, the capabilities of these vehicles extend beyond reconnaissance. They can be outfitted with machine guns or grenade launchers to serve as remote-controlled weapon platforms and can also assist in evacuating injured soldiers from hazardous areas. FMI further highlighted their potential use as remote-controlled explosives designed to target bunkers or tanks.
This groundbreaking initiative signals a commitment to adopting innovative technologies in defense operations, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency on the battlefield.
