Pilot operation of new developments — a key driver for advancing underwater demining technologies

The importance of implementing pilot (controlled) operation of new technological solutions, including in underwater demining, was highlighted by UDS Chief Economist Oleksandr Romaniuk during the National Underwater Demining Conference “Depth of Safety — 2025,” held in the Lviv region.

UDS was also represented by Ihor Ovcharuk, Head of the UDS “East” Humanitarian Demining Department, who has over 10 years of practical experience in underwater demining and, prior to joining UDS, served as the Head of the Humanitarian Demining and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES).

Over the course of two days, participants discussed modern approaches to underwater demining, strategic priorities of state policy in the field of mine action, environmental aspects of operations in aquatic areas contaminated with explosive hazards, as well as issues of standardization, operational methodologies, and personnel training. Significant attention was given to technology demonstrations, including underwater and surface drones, technical platforms, 3D mapping systems, and specialized equipment for detecting and neutralizing explosive hazards underwater.

In his address, Oleksandr Romaniuk emphasized the importance of real-world testing in developing effective technological solutions:

“For both developers and demining operators, it is essential to implement a system of pilot operation for new developments and technologies in underwater demining. An example of such a partnership is our cooperation with the Kramatorsk Heavy Machine Tool Plant. The Ukrainian Germina machine was developed based on reports generated during its pilot operation. This approach made it possible to create the best model in its class.”

The conference brought together representatives of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, the State Emergency Service, the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the State Special Transport Service, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, UNDP, international expert organizations, mine action operators, and manufacturers of specialized underwater demining technologies and equipment.

The event was organized by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine with the support of UNDP in Ukraine, in partnership with international organizations and mine action operators.