Unique buggies for the front line: Ukraine to receive first in the world Ermine for the wounded
26 June 09:46
Ukraine will be the first country in the world to receive new Ermine buggies, which allow for fast and efficient transportation of the wounded in difficult combat conditions. This is reported by "Komersant Ukrainian" with reference to the German arms concern Rheinmetall and Militarny.
New generation equipment to save the wounded at the front
The ordered vehicles are guided and unmanned ground vehicles designed for medical evacuation of the wounded near the front line. Deliveries are scheduled for 2026.
This project involves extensive cooperation with other Dutch companies, including DEMCON Defense & Security Systems B.V. and Abiom Communication Systems (ACS) B.V., which strengthens the project and promotes the development of national technologies. This initiative will strengthen not only Ukraine’s defense capabilities, but also the industrial capabilities of the Netherlands.
“We are grateful for the trust in our capabilities. Ermine is an innovative and effective solution for the modern battlefield,” said Koen van Leeuwen, CEO of Rheinmetall Defense Nederland B.V.
The Ermine is a new generation of light tactical vehicles designed primarily for evacuation operations in close proximity to the front line. These mobile platforms allow for fast and efficient transportation of the wounded, operating in difficult combat conditions.
What we know about the Ermine buggy
The Ermine buggy is part of a new generation of lightweight mobile platforms that combine tactical transportation and a mobile energy source (microgrid). The concept is based on operational flexibility, adaptability and modularity.
The model range includes:
- UGV (universal unmanned vehicle),
- side-by-side buggies,
- and an ATV.
The equipment has a diesel-electric hybrid transmission, which provides high maneuverability and up to 1 ton of cargo, as well as a range of more than 1,000 km, depending on the configuration. The Ermine buggies can be transported on board CH-47 or CH-53 helicopters – up to four units at a time.
Why it is important
This contract is the first large-scale phase of the Ermine project, and Ukraine will be the first country in the world to receive these vehicles. This will not only strengthen the logistics of the Armed Forces of Ukraine but also contribute to the development of the Dutch defense industry.
