Background

Mines and unexploded ordnance in the ground or on land are a massive global problem. They cause significant economic damage and immense human suffering. Despite advancements in defense technology over the past decades, there have been no new solutions for mine clearance. Currently, we use technology that is 50 years old and requires substantial resources. Experts have described the situation as an intellectual failure. With current technology, it would take 500 years to clear the unexploded mines and ordnance present in the ground.

Every year, more mines are planted, making the situation unsustainable. After a conflict, land safety is a critical issue that hinders the continuation of life in affected areas. Safe land is needed for housing, agriculture, and building schools. Before land use can be planned for these purposes, information is needed on whether there are unexploded mines and ordnance in the soil and how they can be cleared. Current methods are too slow.

Our Innovative Solution

Tampere University of Applied Sciences is Finland’s leading institution in drone technology research. We have participated in several multidisciplinary projects studying the application of drones, and our idea is based on the results of these R&D projects. Using our multidisciplinary expertise in the Miinakartta project, we are preparing a commercial solution that combines multi-sensor technology with artificial intelligence. The drone detects, identifies, and locates unexploded mines and ordnance. The data is converted into map information, which can be used to plan land use and, if necessary, clearance.

Project Team and Market Potential

The project team consists of experienced experts in commercialization, drone technology, and business, supported by a strong and motivated steering group. The commercial application has enormous market potential. Defense budgets of individual countries and NATO are increasing, and efficient mine removal and land use optimization are seen as essential. With Finland’s NATO membership, the chances of getting the solution into NATO’s procurement program have improved.

Objective

The goal of the Miinakartta project is to develop a POC-level product and build business models that enable further funding for the next phase. The next phase could be either an industrial partner to commercialize the POC into an industrial solution or a continuation as part of an industrial and research consortium. The ultimate goal is to create a commercial solution.

Partners

The project’s steering group includes representatives from Business Tampere, Senop Oy, Patria Oyj, and UNESCO. A broad and skilled steering group helps bring industrial perspectives to the planning of technology and business models and partnerships. Our partner Insta Group Oy has provided us with a situational awareness system that makes it easy to visualize findings.

Funding

The Miinakartta project’s funding is based on both Business Finland R2B and Tampere University of Applied Sciences funding.