Milrem Robotics Ramps Up Production: A Game Changer in Unmanned Ground Vehicles

Fivefold Increase in Production Capacity

Milrem Robotics, the leading name in robotics and autonomous systems, has made a significant leap by expanding its production capacity fivefold. The new facility, adjacent to their headquarters in Tallinn, Estonia, is set to manufacture over 500 units of the THeMIS Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) annually.

Milrem meets Global Demand

The THeMIS UGV is currently part of robotics programs in 18 Countries, including eight NATO members like the US, UK, and Germany. It’s also being used by Ukrainian soldiers in the conflict with Russia. This expansion allows Milrem to meet the increasing demand from satisfied end-users planning large-scale procurements.

CEO Kuldar Väärsi stated, “The growing use of UGVs in Ukraine shows a clear focus and importance of unmanned ground systems.”

Prototyping and Employment Growth

Along with production, Milrem is expanding its prototyping facilities to accelerate the development of new products. An additional 1,000 square meters of office space has been added. Unlike other tech companies that laid off employees in 2023, Milrem is hiring 100 new employees, mainly in Europe, contributing to the local economy and talent pool.

Boost to Estonian Defense Industry

The expansion also benefits Estonia’s defense industry.

Kusti Salm, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Defense of Estonia, highlighted, “Milrem Robotics is a good example of how a defence industry start-up has grown in 10 years into a large and innovative industrial company.”

This growth reflects the maturity of the Estonian defense industry and its potential for national defense and economic development.

DroneXL’s Take

Milrem Robotics’ expansion showcases the crucial role of unmanned systems in modern defense. As they scale up production and innovation, their impact on both security and the economy will likely grow. This move underlines the importance of investing in advanced technology and the benefits of a robust defense industry.