Milrem Robotics: Pioneering Innovations and Developments in Finland Unmanned Ground Vehicle Market

Milrem Robotics, an Estonian-based Finland Unmanned Ground Vehicle Market , has emerged as a transformative force in the global defense sector, with a growing influence on Finland’s Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) market. Renowned for its innovative THeMIS platform and ambitious development projects, Milrem Robotics is adapting its cutting-edge technologies to meet Finland’s unique defense needs, leveraging its strategic presence in the Nordic region. As of April 6, 2025, the company’s emerging innovations and recent developments are positioning it as a key contributor to Finland’s military modernization efforts, particularly in the realm of UGVs.

Strategic Expansion into Finland

Finland’s defense landscape, shaped by its proximity to Russia and its recent NATO membership (April 2023), demands robust, adaptable, and technologically advanced solutions. Milrem Robotics recognized this opportunity and established a subsidiary in Helsinki in November 2024, marking a significant step in its Nordic expansion. This move reflects the company’s strategy to deepen ties with Finnish defense institutions and tailor its offerings to the Finnish Defence Forces’ operational requirements, such as operating in harsh arctic conditions and rugged terrains.

The Helsinki office, currently staffed with 10 professionals specializing in sales, robotics engineering, and project management, serves as a hub for program management and R&D initiatives. Milrem’s presence in Finland is not just a foothold but a commitment to fostering local partnerships and contributing to the region’s defense ecosystem. By aligning its innovations with Finland’s focus on comprehensive security—highlighted at events like SecD-Day 2025 in Helsinki—Milrem is positioning itself as a trusted partner in the Finnish UGV market.

Emerging Innovations Driving Finland’s UGV Sector

Milrem Robotics is at the forefront of UGV innovation, with its flagship THeMIS (Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System) platform leading the charge. The THeMIS UGV, a combat-proven system deployed in 19 countries, including Ukraine, offers a modular and versatile design that can be adapted for roles such as logistics, reconnaissance, and direct fire support. In Finland, where extreme weather and challenging landscapes dominate, Milrem has tailored the THeMIS to excel in subarctic conditions—a capability demonstrated during the Arctic Strike exercise in 2025, where it was equipped with Saab’s Sirius Compact Sensor.

One of Milrem’s standout innovations is its Intelligent Functions Integration Kit (MIFIK), which enhances the THeMIS with autonomous capabilities like waypoint navigation, follow-me functionality, and return-home features. These AI-driven systems reduce the cognitive load on operators, allowing Finnish forces to focus on mission-critical tasks in complex environments. The company’s commitment to advancing autonomy is further evidenced by its plans to make certified autonomous functions a standard feature of the THeMIS by 2022, with annual updates—an approach that ensures long-term relevance for Finland’s evolving defense needs.

Another emerging innovation is Milrem’s focus on interoperability. The THeMIS can integrate with UAVs, tethered drones, and manned systems, creating a cohesive ecosystem that enhances situational awareness and operational flexibility. This capability resonates with Finland’s interest in manned-unmanned teaming, a priority as it strengthens its NATO-aligned defense posture. Additionally, the company’s development of wheeled platforms alongside its tracked systems—like the Havoc 8x8 unveiled at IDEX 2025—offers Finland options suited to varied terrains, from snowy forests to urban settings.

Recent Developments Impacting Finland

Milrem Robotics has made significant strides in recent years, many of which directly influence its role in Finland’s UGV market. In May 2024, the company expanded its production capacity fivefold in Tallinn, Estonia, enabling it to manufacture over 500 THeMIS units annually. This scalability ensures Milrem can meet potential Finnish demand as the country ramps up its UGV adoption. The opening of a new prototyping facility alongside this expansion accelerates the development of next-generation systems, some of which could be customized for Finland’s specific operational challenges.

The company’s participation in European defense initiatives also bolsters its credibility in Finland. Milrem leads the Integrated Modular Unmanned Ground System (iMUGS) project, funded by the European Defence Industrial Development Programme, which aims to standardize UGV architectures across Europe. Finland, one of the seven EU member states defining iMUGS requirements, benefits directly from this initiative, as it ensures compatibility with NATO and EU systems—a critical factor for a newly minted NATO member.

In January 2025, Milrem showcased the THeMIS Cargo variant at SecD-Day in Helsinki, highlighting its ability to transport supplies in demanding environments. This demonstration underscored the platform’s relevance to Finland’s logistics needs, particularly in remote border regions. Moreover, the company’s collaboration with Texelis in November 2024 to develop a next-generation robotic combat vehicle (RCV) with advanced electrified drivetrains promises enhanced mobility and endurance—attributes well-suited to Finland’s vast and varied terrain.

Adapting to Finland’s UGV Market

Finland’s UGV market is still emerging, but it is poised for growth as the country seeks to enhance its military capabilities amid heightened regional tensions. Milrem Robotics adapts its offerings to this market by emphasizing durability, autonomy, and cost-effectiveness. The THeMIS’s proven track record in Ukraine—where it has supported operations against Russia—offers Finland a battle-tested solution for border surveillance and rapid-response missions. Its hybrid propulsion systems, balancing diesel and electric power, align with Finland’s sustainability goals while ensuring operational reliability in cold climates.

Milrem’s modular approach allows Finland to integrate domestic payloads or sensors, fostering collaboration with Finnish tech firms and potentially boosting the local economy. The company’s focus on reducing human exposure to risk—through autonomous navigation and remote operation—addresses Finland’s need to protect personnel in high

Conclusion

Milrem Robotics is shaping Finland’s Unmanned Ground Vehicle market through strategic expansion, cutting-edge innovations, and developments tailored to the nation’s defense priorities. With its Helsinki subsidiary, advanced THeMIS platform, and commitment to autonomy and interoperability, Milrem is well-positioned to meet Finland’s needs for versatile, resilient UGVs. As Finland strengthens its NATO role and modernizes its military, Milrem’s contributions—rooted in innovation and adaptability—will likely play a pivotal role in enhancing national security and operational effectiveness in the years ahead.