Milrem Robotics is working to advance autonomous ground systems to enhance AI capabilities and integrate unmanned technologies. Over the next decade, the company aims to significantly transform defence and explore new civilian applications, focusing on sustainability and innovation. The Capability Development Director Raul Rikk unveiled the behind-the-scenes curtain and gave e-Estonia a glimpse.

What is Milrem Robotics’ vision for the future of robotics in Europe, and how do you see the company contributing to advancements across industries?

We envision a future where robotics and automation change multiple sectors, with autonomous systems taking on the dangerous, dirty, and dull tasks traditionally handled by humans, particularly in the military. We aim to lead this evolution by advancing cutting-edge autonomous technologies, enhancing their capabilities, and providing solutions that save lives and improve defence operations.

“In the future, we envision robotic systems that can respond to verbal commands, similar to traditional military units.”
Raul Rikk, The Capability Development Director at Milrem Robotics

What are the company’s main strategic objectives over the next 5–10 years?

Over the next 5–10 years, we’re focused on solidifying Milrem Robotics as the global leader in autonomous ground systems. A key part of that is advancing our technology by expanding our range of unmanned ground platforms, both wheeled and tracked, while continuously improving their AI-driven autonomy.

Another major priority is enhancing system integration to combine different payloads, robotic systems like UAVs, and existing manned systems into a unified ecosystem. Alongside this, we’re dedicated to guiding our clients through integrating these disruptive unmanned technologies into their defence infrastructures.

Ultimately, we aim to reduce human exposure in high-risk environments, though this process is gradual. In the future, robotic systems will take over soldiers’ tasks on the battlefield.

How is Milrem Robotics using AI in its product development, and are there plans to integrate advanced AI into decision-making or autonomy?

AI is at the core of our technology and will continue to be a major focus of future developments. Our goal is to enable machines or groups to operate independently across various terrains and conditions while being easily controlled by humans.

In the future, we envision robotic systems that can respond to verbal commands, similar to traditional military units. This level of AI integration would enhance decision-making and autonomy, allowing machines to carry out complex tasks based on high-level instructions. However, our AI systems strictly focus on mobility, not allowing weapons systems to make autonomous decisions.

What new technologies or innovations is Milrem Robotics currently developing?

We are advancing autonomy, enhancing our systems’ ability to operate independently across various terrains and weather conditions. We’re also developing capabilities for multiple machines to work together seamlessly as a cohesive unit, performing independent tasks as part of a larger ensemble. Additionally, we are advancing interoperability with other robotic systems, such as aerial and underwater drones, to create more versatile, integrated solutions. We’re also designing a range of wheeled and tracked platforms to offer customised solutions that meet our client’s needs.

“In the future, robotic systems will take over soldiers’ tasks on the battlefield.”
Raul Rikk, The Capability Development Director at Milrem Robotics

How is sustainability incorporated into Milrem Robotics´ development, especially defence technologies?

Sustainability is a key focus for us. Robotic systems are inherently more efficient for repetitive tasks, reducing the need for human labour and energy consumption. As we continue to develop our systems, integrating environmentally sustainable solutions will remain a priority, ensuring that our innovations meet defence needs and reduce overall environmental impact.

Milrem has expanded globally. What are your next target markets, and how do international collaborations factor into your strategy?

We already operate internationally, with offices and development centres in several countries. Our strategy focuses on entering markets ready to adopt robotic systems and collaborating with partners keen to enhance their robotic capabilities. While some nations are testing and integrating these technologies, others are in the early exploration phase. We aim to maintain a global presence and support partnerships that advance these capabilities.

As an Estonian-based company, how does Estonia’s advanced digital infrastructure contribute to Milrem Robotics’ growth?

Estonia’s advanced digital governance has been instrumental in our growth. The country’s leadership in e-services, like digital ID and electronic signatures, has streamlined our operations, making daily administrative processes more efficient. This digital infrastructure has been a significant enabler as we innovate and expand.

“While our current focus is primarily on defence due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, we have a strong track record of developing unmanned prototypes for civilian applications, including firefighting, street cleaning, and forest planting.”
Raul Rikk, The Capability Development Director at Milrem Robotics

How does Milrem Robotics integrate with Estonia’s digital ecosystem, and do you see the potential for collaboration in cyber defence or secure communications?

Military systems generally operate separately from civilian infrastructures, so there is no need for direct integration with Estonia’s digital ecosystem. However, we see potential for future collaboration in cyber defence and secure communications, especially as our technology evolves to address civilian applications such as firefighting and disaster response. For instance, we could envision a fire detection app sending an alert and a robotic firefighting unit being dispatched quickly to the scene. These kinds of digital integrations will enhance response times and operational efficiency.

What challenges do you foresee as Milrem Robotics innovates in robotics, especially regarding regulation and public perception?

One key challenge is integrating robotic systems into existing military doctrines and operations. While these systems reduce risks to human life and increase effectiveness, their adoption requires significant changes in military leadership, training, and logistics.

Moreover, as robotic systems become more widespread, regulatory and public perception hurdles may need to be overcome. The ongoing war in Ukraine provides valuable insights into robotic systems’ performance in real-world scenarios, helping us refine our technology and prepare for broader adoption.

What are Milrem Robotics’ plans for expanding into non-defence sectors like civil infrastructure, disaster response, or smart cities?

While our current focus is primarily on defence due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, we have a strong track record of developing unmanned prototypes for civilian applications, including firefighting, street cleaning, and forest planting. We see significant potential for expanding into areas like civil infrastructure, disaster response, and smart cities, leveraging our technology to address various societal needs.

Are you interested in trading with Estonia? Enterprise Estonia is providing sourcing service for foreign enterprises. Contact Estonian export advisors or use our free e-consulting service to start trade with Estonia.