The recent NATO Innovation Challenge, focused on the critical challenge of Remote Explosive-Contaminated Area Recognition and Neutralization, drew ground-breaking solutions from around the globe. Emerging victorious was BROSWARM, a Lithuanian defence and security start-up developing advanced mine detection technology, led by Ernestas Zvaigzdinas.
Zvaigzdinas, a seasoned entrepreneur with a 20-year track record in start-ups, found himself drawn to a new challenge with the war in Ukraine. “When the war hit, curiosity of ‘if we could do something about it’ grew each day,” he shared. Soon, his brother and close friend decided to address the difficult task of mine-clearance, and that’s when they started the company. BROSWARM’s solution, borne from this desire to help, quickly rose to the top of NATO’s Innovation Challenge with its pioneering approach.
Beyond Sensor Fusion: A New Era in Mine Detection
While many entries explored sensor fusion, BROSWARM went a step further. “We began by combining existing sensors like magnetometers and thermal imaging with machine learning,” Zvaigzdinas explains, “but we realized the world needs a fundamentally new approach.” This realization led to the development of a ground-breaking sensor that merges Ground Penetrating Radar technology, commonly used in landmine detection, with Synthetic Aperture Radar technology typically found in planes and satellites. The result? A sensor capable of generating a 3D image of objects both above and below the ground, a game-changer in the field of remote mine clearance.
Safety, Efficiency, and Scalability: A Winning Combination
The NATO Innovation Challenge emphasized key factors like speed, efficiency, safety, and minimal human intervention. BROSWARM’s solution addressed each of these criteria effectively. Utilizing drone technology inherently improves safety by removing human personnel from the minefield. The advanced sensor promises significant improvements in efficiency and speed of mine detection. Scalability is another key strength. “We believe within a year,” Zvaigzdinas says with confidence, “this technology will be ready for to use in the most needed places, maybe even on the front lines. Hopefully soon after, it will be ready for peaceful demining on a large scale.”
The Human Touch: AI as a Partner, Not a Replacement
While artificial intelligence was initially a focal point for BROSWARM, the development process yielded a surprising discovery. “Our sensor excels when combined with human expertise,” Zvaigzdinas highlights. Artificial Intelligence will undoubtedly enhance the efficacy in the future, but for now, “nothing can beat the human eye.” This shift in focus underscores BROSWARM’s commitment to developing a solution that is not just technologically advanced, but also user-friendly and optimized for human-machine collaboration.
A Global Solution for Diverse Challenges
While Ukraine’s heavily mined landscape presented a unique challenge, BROSWARM’s technology is designed to be adaptable. “The sensor can operate up to 10 meters above ground and penetrate various surfaces like earth and even some water-logged areas,” Zvaigzdinas explains. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of geographical terrains and diverse types of landmines.
Collaboration is the Key to Demining the Future
Despite the significant progress made, Zvaigzdinas acknowledges the need for further breakthroughs. “We still have yet to see a truly breakthrough remote mine clearance solution in practice. I hope our technology will be part of it as a very effective detection technology,” he says. To achieve this, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration between NATO, academia, and industry. “NATO’s willingness to take risks with early-stage technologies like ours is vital,” he commends. “We, as entrepreneurs and scientists, are willing to help fight this war with our skills, but we need inclusion, funding, data and many other things to push the boundaries of what’s possible.”
A Call to Arms for the Next Generation of Innovators
With the landmine threat a constant concern in various conflict zones, Zvaigzdinas has a powerful message for future innovators: “Don’t hold back your best ideas! Collaborate, innovate, and surprise the world!” The NATO Innovation Challenge serves as a prime example of how such a collaborative spirit can lead to ground-breaking advancements that can save lives. BROSWARM’s victory is a testament to this spirit, offering a beacon of hope in the fight against landmines.