Ukraine deploys cutting-edge drones to clear underwater mines
Ukraine has received 16 Deep Tracker Revolution drones designed to aid in clearing mines from water bodies. It is estimated that about 53,282 square miles of Ukrainian territory is potentially contaminated with mines and unexploded ordnance, including about 5,212 square miles of rivers, lakes, and marine zones.
Ukraine has acquired 16 modern Deep Tracker Revolution drones to support underwater demining efforts. According to the Ministry of Economy, the drones were purchased by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with funds from South Korea, France, and New Zealand.
Advanced equipment to aid demining
According to the United24 Media portal, these 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 replaceable batteries enable continuous use by rescue teams.
Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine, Ihor Bezkaravainyi, emphasized the significance of these drones as "the eyes of sappers underwater." The drones are crucial for safety, offering new possibilities for detecting wartime remnants in water bodies.
Mariia Guttsman from UNDP noted that innovations are essential 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.
