Innovative Ukrainian Drone Tackles Landmine Crisis in War-Torn Kharkiv Region

In a groundbreaking development, a fully Ukrainian-made drone is now being deployed to address the landmine crisis in the war-ravaged Kharkiv region. The Kaban ground drone, created by the UreHub team, is proving to be a game-changer in the efforts to clear the region of deadly explosives left behind by the Russian occupation and intense fighting.

A Region Riddled with Danger

The Kharkiv region remains one of the most heavily mined areas in Ukraine following the Russian occupation and fierce battles. With over 50 hectares of land contaminated by mines and shells, farmers are unable to work their fields safely. Every signal must be carefully checked for potential danger, making the demining process a painstaking and time-consuming endeavor.

The Kaban Ground Drone: A Ukrainian Innovation

Enter the Kaban ground drone, a fully Ukrainian innovation developed by the UreHub team. Brought together by the outbreak of the full-scale war, the team consists of developers of unmanned systems and experts in robotic ground structures. In 2023, the Kaban drone was presented as a startup in the program of projects from the Ukrainian defense industry concern, where it was recognized as one of the biggest in its segment.

Resilient and Versatile

The Kaban drone is designed to withstand the rigors of demining operations. Its airless wheels can survive anti-personnel mines, and its unique structure, equipped with video cameras and a special antenna, allows the operator to detect and remove booby traps. The drone’s compact size also enables it to work in closed rooms, making it a versatile tool for various demining scenarios.

Efficiency and Endurance

With the ability to work for up to 6 hours without a break and travel up to 10 kilometers during this time, the Kaban drone significantly enhances the efficiency of demining efforts. Its resilient main body, covered by a second layer of armor on the outside, can withstand explosive devices. The drone also features elements for attaching additional equipment, such as bags or boxes, allowing it to transport useful items to hard-to-reach places.

From Combat to Humanitarian Aid

Most of the Ground Drones created by the UreHub team are currently deployed in combat zones. However, the Kaban drone is now being used for humanitarian demining in the Kharkiv region, where the State Emergency Service has already destroyed more than 160,000 explosive objects and inspected over 9,500 hectares of land since the liberation of the territory.

As Ukraine continues to grapple with the aftermath of the war, innovative solutions like the Kaban ground drone offer hope for a safer future. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and the ingenuity of its people, Ukraine is taking significant strides towards clearing its land of the deadly remnants of conflict, one mine at a time.