QinetiQ TALON Robots Shipped to Aid Ukraine

Although the recent conflict in the Ukraine has drawn international attention and aid initiatives, the area really became a pivot point for a shift in the global security environment when Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and began arming separatists in the country’s southeast. This hostile action marked a concerted effort by Russia to solidify control over the Ukraine’s resources and military positioning.1

QinetiQ US saw a looming threat to our national security and took action to ensure the safety of citizens and political relations. In 2014, QinetiQ US began sending teams to the Ukraine to train combat engineers in the use, operation, and repair of the QinetiQ TALON® robot, which has broad usage applications including the mitigation of risks from explosives and chemical warfare. In the last eight years, the QinetiQ team has trained more than 100 soldiers in TALON operations.

With over 50 years of proven success providing critical capabilities in support of our Defense and Security forces in the U.S. and abroad, QinetiQ is uniquely positioned to offer multi-domain solutions that ensure we get the best products and services into the hands of warfighters when and where they are most needed. When Russia invaded the Ukraine in February of 2022 more than 12 TALON robots were already in operation, and an additional 10 TALONs will be arriving soon to aid Ukrainian defense forces. The TALON has been the robot of choice in combat situations around the globe since it was first deployed over 20 years ago. With the ability to locate and dispose of explosives, identify anti-personnel mines, and conduct surveillance and reconnaissance, TALON provides safety and security for soldiers on the ground.

Approximately 50% - 60% of Russian bombs remain unexploded after deployment, posing significant danger to both military personnel and civilians. TALON not only detects the location of these bombs, but disposes of them to ensure safety risks remain low. It also gives Ukrainian soldiers an advantage in an environment where Russian land forces exceed the land forces of Ukraine by almost five times.2

The Biden administration recently announced that the U.S. will be providing an additional $800 million in military aid to Ukraine.3 QinetiQ is poised to assist in any way possible, standing by Ukrainian soldiers as we have since 2014.