Sappers to use AI for demining in Mykolaiv region

The Mines Eye aerial reconnaissance system, which will help sappers in Mykolaiv region to detect ammunition and explosive devices in the region more effectively, has been delivered to the sappers. The project is being implemented under the United Nations Development Program in Ukraine with the financial support of the Government of Luxembourg.

According to the Mykolaiv Oblast State Emergency Service, the Mines Eye unmanned system allows for remote inspection of mined areas.

"Thanks to the use of artificial intelligence, the system is able to identify explosive objects, including anti-tank mines, even under vegetation. The system creates detailed maps and analytical reports, helping specialists make more informed and safer decisions before starting demining, both manual and mechanized," the statement said.

According to the ministry, the system combines magnetometry with high-precision aerial and infrared imagery, which allows for remote survey of large areas of territory contaminated by war remnants.

Over the past five months, sappers trained under the UNDP program have already surveyed more than 360 hectares of hazardous and potentially contaminated areas in Mykolaiv and Kharkiv regions.

UN Under-Secretary-General and UNDP Acting Administrator Haoliang Xu emphasized the importance of synergies between Ukrainian technology and international support.

"Thanks to such tools, we can return land to communities faster and safer, providing protection to those who need it. Humanitarian demining is not only about clearing mines, but also about restoring security, rebuilding lives and developing economic potential," said Haoliang Xu.

In the future, the Mines Eye system is planned to be fully integrated into the work of SES units throughout Ukraine, particularly in areas with difficult terrain, high levels of pollution and limited access.

Earlier, Ukraine launched an initiative for effective demining called Life Robots Ukraine. The project focuses on two types of robots: the first to deliver goods to the war zone, and the second to safely disarm mines. One of the most affordable Ukrainian robots is capable of destroying mines mechanically, using special chains that create pressure on the ground. The explosions do not disable the machine, and the operator is kept at a safe distance.

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