Rheinmetall Concern and Croatian DOK-ING to Jointly Develop Unmanned Transport.

German Rheinmetall to sign an agreement with DOK-ING for the development of unmanned vehicles to accompany tanks on the battlefield

German weapons manufacturer Rheinmetall and Croatian company DOK-ING, specializing in robotics, announced that they will join forces to develop unmanned vehicles that could accompany tanks on the battlefield and perform tasks such as mine clearance, air defense, or reconnaissance.

In Berlin, the companies signed an agreement with the aim of creating a joint venture subject to approval of the plan by the European Commission and national antitrust authorities, reports Ukrinform referencing Reuters.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, DOK-ING owner Vjekoslav Madjatić said that the need for a stronger and self-sufficient European defense industry has never been as high as now.

"The partnership between Rheinmetall and DOK-ING happens at the right Time when Europe knows it needs to invest more in its own defense capabilities to preserve peace, freedom, and democracy as the foundation of our way of life,"

Rheinmetall and DOK-ING stated that they intend to present the first prototype of an unmanned demining vehicle in 2025.

The tracked vehicle based on the Komodo platform from DOK-ING is also expected to be capable of laying mines while recording their precise positions. It will be able to reach speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour, allowing it to keep up with tanks and infantry fighting vehicles.