Croatian innovation meets German engineering in new defence system

DOK-ING and Rheinmetall sign deal (Photo credit: MORH/ F. Klen)

DOK-ING, an innovative Croatian engineering company, is set to lead Europe’s defence market for unmanned combat vehicles following a major agreement with German defence firm Rheinmetall.

The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 28 October 2024, outlining plans to create a joint venture focused on developing unmanned ground systems (UGS) for combat and support roles, entirely based on European technology.

This partnership will initially work on an unmanned system tailored for minefield operations and counter-mobility, with a demonstrator model expected to debut in 2025, the company said in a statement.

DOK-ING’s founder, Vjekoslav Majetić, emphasised the partnership as a commitment to a more secure European future, highlighting the benefits of shared expertise and innovation.

(Photo credit: MORH/ F. Klen)

The agreement was signed at the Croatian Embassy in Berlin, with senior Croatian officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Ivan Anušić, present. Anušić praised the venture as a major opportunity for Croatia’s defence industry to establish a stronghold in the unmanned systems sector, especially given Europe’s evolving security needs.

Through this collaboration, DOK-ING will enhance its portfolio with Rheinmetall’s extensive combat and support capabilities, incorporating Rheinmetall’s advanced modules into DOK-ING’s Komodo platform.

The venture also aims to develop a range of solutions, including an “armed support Wingman” vehicle, designed to work alongside Rheinmetall’s renowned combat vehicles.

The joint initiative, subject to regulatory approvals, will focus on both European and international markets, aiming to set new standards in unmanned defence technology.

DOK-ING is a leading engineering company specialising in advanced robotics and autonomous systems. Headquartered in Zagreb, Croatia, with additional offices across Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia, the company controls over 80% of its market across 40+ countries.

DOK-ING designs and produces robotic and autonomous systems aimed at protecting lives and property in challenging, hazardous environments. Its solutions support a wide range of fields, including military engineering, counter-terrorism, emergency response, and underground mining, helping responders handle the most demanding tasks safely and efficiently.