FN Herstal and Milrem Robotics Exhibit a Weaponized Unmanned Warfare System at DSEI

This system features the THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle by Milrem and the deFNder® remote weapon station by FN Herstal. The joint product has strong advantages in providing fire support and acting as a force multiplier for warfighters.

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--One of the leading firearms and weapon systems manufacturer FN Herstal and defence solutions provider Milrem Robotics are introducing their first joint product, a weaponized unmanned warfare system, at DSEI 2017.


This system features the THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle by Milrem and the deFNder® remote weapon station by FN Herstal. The joint product has strong advantages in providing fire support and acting as a force multiplier for warfighters.

The system has already been deployed with positive results at the largest Estonian military exercise Spring Storm 2017. The two companies will continue their R&D efforts later this year.

"Weaponized robotic systems are the next generation of warfare that will provide a new level of fire power and most importantly keep our soldiers in a safe distance," said Kuldar Väärsi, the CEO of Milrem Robotics. "And I am not talking about AI driven systems but remotely controlled solutions where human operators make all the important decisions," he added.

"The combined solution of deFNder® Medium and THeMIS, merging the technologies and expertise of our two companies, illustrates the potential of the concept," said Vincent Verleye, COO of FN Herstal. "The value added of such a weaponized robotic system is self-explanatory," he added.

The tracked diesel-electric THeMIS UGV is intended to provide support for dismounted troops even on very harsh terrains and in difficult conditions. It offers 10 hours of work time with one full tank that can be topped up anytime. The system has a payload of at least 750 kg /1650 lbs.

Unlike competing systems the THeMIS is a multi-mission system that can be equipped with several different superstructures including IED detection and disposal systems, small and large calibre weapons and also tethered and non-tethered drones.

The system is on display at the Estonian National Pavilion N3-430 with other Estonian defence industry partners.

THeMIS + deFNder RWS - https://youtu.be/XNe6jDZqPu4

Featured Product

TM Robotics – Shibaura Machine THE SCARA range

TM Robotics - Shibaura Machine THE SCARA range

The THE range from Shibaura Machine is an extensive line up of SCARA robots. Available in four arm lengths THE400 (400mm), THE600 (600mm) and the most recent THE800 (800mm) and THE1000 (1000mm), this range is suitable for assembly, handling, inspection and pick and place processes in varied industrial applications. The THE1000 boasts a 20kg payload capacity and an impressive 0.44 second cycle time, providing high speeds for processes with large components. In fact, the range has been recognised for as the price-to-performance leader compared to other SCARA models in its price range due to its impressive speed versus payload capacity.