Two GCS-200 mine-clearing machines and other specialised demining equipment worth over EUR 1.8 million were handed over to the State Special Transport Service by Rémi Duflot, Chargé d’affaires a.i. of the EU Delegation to Ukraine. This is the latest delivery in the framework of the European Union’s EUR 25 million support package for humanitarian demining announced at the EU-Ukraine Summit of February 2023. The package is designed to meet the urgent needs of Ukraine’s state mine action operators, ranging from basic equipment for demining teams to pyrotechnic vehicles and robotic demining systems. Due to Russia’s war of aggression, Ukraine is among the countries most contaminated by mines and explosive remnants of war worldwide.
Brigadier General Oleksandr Yakovets, Head of the State Special Transport Service said “We are very grateful to our European partners for their constant support. These demining machines and equipment will contribute to faster demining of territories and reduce the risks from explosive remnants of war for the civilian population”.
Rémi Duflot, Chargé d’affaires a.i. of the EU Delegation to Ukraine said “The EU supports Ukraine in meeting the challenges posed by mine contamination, including through the provision of urgently needed equipment. Our work together saves lives, gives hope and contributes to a better future for Ukraine”.
GCS announces the handover of two of cutting-edge, remote-controlled demining platforms to the Ukraine State Special Transport Service as part of a package including training and equipment for local deminers. After the first machine delivered earlier this year was christened “Nadiya” – hope, the two new machines will be called “Vira” – faith and “Lyubov” – love, in keeping with the tradition. As pioneers of mine clearance technology, GCS has been creating safe environments in Ukraine since 2022. Our secure and customised solutions save lives and are essential for Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction. Demining allows for the safe return of the civilian population and relaunch of economic activities, notably in the transport, trade, and agricultural sectors.
GCS is a full-service provider specialising in the disposal of landmines, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and other explosive hazards. The company multinational team brings decades of expertise in conducting a wide range of high-risk clearance operations in highly treacherous environments around the world. We have worked together with the United Nations, international NGOs, governments, commercial entities and security companies in over 30 countries. GCS was established in 2015, with headquarters in Freienbach, Switzerland, and a production facility in Stockach, Germany. GCS received DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 certification December 28, 2017.
