For safer and more efficient rescue operations: German Government provides robotic fire fighting systems, evacuation buses and protective suits for female staff to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (DSNS)

The federally owned enterprise Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, provides two robotic all-terrain vehicles (LUF-CRV, LUF-LOG), two Torsus Pretorian off-road buses, and 150 sets of specifically tailored protective suits for female operational staff. The equipment is aimed at making DSNS' operations more efficient and effective as well as safer for their staff. They also enable DSNS to respond to new and more complex emergency scenarios. DSNS staff operating the new equipment has been previously trained in its professional usage and maintenance.

"We work directly with DSNS Ukraine, and the rescuers tell us what kind of equipment or machinery they need. Through this bilateral cooperation, we can cover the most urgent and important needs," says Christian Poschmann, director of the GIZ project "Strengthening State and Municipal Emergency Management in Ukraine".

The two robotic all-terrain vehicles can be operated remotely from a distance of up to 300 meters and are designed for moving objects, such as cars, during rescue operations: LUF-CRV is a vehicle with self-protection against fire and high temperatures.It is equipped with a water and foam extinguishing system. LUF-LOG is a robotic logistics all-terrain vehicle with a crane manipulator.

"Cooperation with GIZ Ukraine is very important and gives us the opportunity to improve our technical and technological capabilities. And now we see a new and qualitative approach to the shaping of the fire service," said Andriy Danyk, Head of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine. "The German Government has provided us with robotic systems. The enemy is insidious and strikes again and again. Therefore, the robots will allow us to save the lives of rescuers."

For the first time, 150 sets of women's protective clothing for rescue and fire fighting operations were custom-made based on consultations with DSNS staff . The uniforms will be distributed to rescue units across Ukraine and will strengthen the role of female staff at the accident scene.

Two Torsus Pretorian off-road buses were also handed over to DSNS. They are designed to evacuate people in difficult terrain and off-road conditions with a capacity for up to 34 passengers. The buses are color-coded and equipped with a loudspeaker system and flashing beacons in the specially protected radiator grille.