European Union Sends Demining Machines to Help Clear Minefields in Armenia

The European Union has delivered two specialized remote-controlled demining vehicles to Armenia, providing new technology to help clear landmines from hazardous areas that continue to threaten communities near the country's borders.

The Armenian government said the Croatian-built machines are capable of clearing all types of mines while operating remotely, allowing crews to work from a safer distance. The vehicles are also designed to withstand powerful explosions, reducing risks for demining personnel.

Armenia estimates that nearly 43 million square meters of land remain contaminated by explosive hazards in the provinces of Tavush, Syunik, Vayots Dzor, Ararat and Gegharkunik. Many of the affected areas include farmland, pastures and key infrastructure that cannot be safely used until they are cleared.

Officials say the new equipment will speed up humanitarian demining operations, improve public safety and help return contaminated land to productive use, supporting local communities and economic development.

The delivery is financed through the Armenia-European Union Bilateral Partnership Agenda, signed in December 2025, which earmarks €15 million for projects aimed at strengthening peace and resilience in Armenia. The package also includes two fully equipped ambulances that are expected to arrive later.

According to the government, the demining vehicles are scheduled to enter service in 2027. In addition to humanitarian clearance operations, they are expected to be used during the ongoing Armenia-Azerbaijan border delimitation process, where mine clearance remains essential for the safe implementation of work on the ground.

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