The Ermine vehicles will be delivered in 2026 and are intended to enhance the Ukrainian armed forces’ casualty evacuation capabilities near the frontline. The order also involves collaboration with Dutch companies DEMCON Defense & Security Systems B.V. and Abiom Communication Systems (ACS) B.V., strengthening national industrial cooperation.
“This national cooperation among industry and MoD will further develop knowledge and capabilities for the Armed Forces of the Netherlands and Ukraine,” the press release stated. The joint effort is expected to act as a force multiplier and contribute to defence innovation.
The Ermine vehicle family is designed for tactical transport and also functions as a mobile microgrid, showcasing Rheinmetall’s focus on operational flexibility. Variants include unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), side-by-side buggies, and quads, all sharing a common diesel-electric hybrid platform.
The vehicles offer high modularity and agility, with configurations allowing up to one tonne of payload and ranges exceeding 1,000 kilometres. Up to four units can be transported by cargo helicopters such as the CH-47 or CH-53.
Coen van Leeuwen, CEO of Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V., commented: “We are grateful for the trust in our capacities. Ermine is an innovative and capable solution for the modern battlefield.”
This order represents the first major success for the Ermine platform and simultaneously reinforces the Dutch defence industry. By supporting Ukraine, the project marks a significant contribution to regional security and technological advancement.
