Explosive ordnance disposal experts in Zhytomyr have mastered the French Iguana robotic systems

A two-month training course for specialists of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit of the National Police of Ukraine has concluded at the Zhytomyr Police Academy. The training was conducted under the guidance of instructors from France as part of an international partnership aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s capabilities in clearing areas contaminated as a result of Russian aggression.

The National Police of Ukraine reports on the successful graduation of the group of specialists.

The training program included theoretical and practical modules on Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) at Levels 1 and 2. Particular attention was paid to working with modern remote-controlled ground systems called “Iguana,” which allow for the most dangerous operations to be performed from a distance, minimizing risks to personnel. The French partners also provided Ukrainian units with specialized equipment and protective gear.

During the final exams, police officers practiced a scenario involving the removal of a suspicious object from a vehicle. With the help of a robot, specialists carefully retrieved the simulated explosives and transported them to a safe disposal site. The use of such systems is critically important for clearing de-occupied territories where the enemy has left a large number of booby traps and unexploded ordnance. The skills acquired will allow bomb disposal experts to carry out humanitarian demining tasks more effectively and safely.

Earlier, the Ministry of Economy proposed creating a separate state agency to handle humanitarian demining issues in Ukraine.

As a reminder, it was previously reported that 250,000 square kilometers in Ukraine may be mined—an area larger than the United Kingdom. At least $400 million is needed for demining this year.