At DVD 2026 in Millbrook last week, Newcastle-based Pearson Engineering gave visitors clear – not to say stark – demonstrations of the latest advances in counter-mine technologies. Visitors were able to trial the latest capabilities for themselves, clearly demonstrating the intuitive nature of the solutions on offer.
Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine gave further impetus to Pearson’s support for the beleaguered country, now enjoying the dubious title of the most heavily mined nation on Earth. The company has supplied vehicle-mounted engineering and mine clearance systems to support the country, including mine ploughs, rollers and mine-clearing systems. It has also collaborated with local organisations to ensure that the capabilities delivered can be sustained over time.
The experience gained in Ukraine is informing Pearson Engineering’s research and development, helping the company understand the evolving mine threat and develop technologies designed for the realities of modern conflict and humanitarian clearance. As a result, visitors to the Pearson stand at DVD 2026 were able to use a simulator to experience both the MineWolf MW370 Next Generation and Threat-Sense systems. The former incorporates increased automation to enhance the safety and effectiveness of mine clearance, while Threat-Sense uses AI to identify threats swiftly and efficiently.
The technologies have applications that extend well beyond the battlefield. With Ukraine facing extensive and long-term mine contamination, Pearson Engineering is committed to supporting the country’s humanitarian mine action requirements and developing the capabilities needed to help return contaminated land to safe and productive use.
“Ukraine has given us an invaluable understanding of the challenges facing mine clearance today. Our continued support is not only helping meet an immediate and vital need; it is also informing how we develop the technologies that will make mine action safer and more effective in the future,” said Ian Bell, CEO of Pearson Engineering. “We were particularly pleased to give visitors to DVD the opportunity to experience MineWolf Next Generation and Threat-Sense for themselves. These technologies demonstrate how frontline insight, engineering expertise and innovation can come together to address one of the most pressing humanitarian challenges facing Ukraine and other mine-affected countries.”
Main image: Threat-Sense at work identifying hidden mine threats. (Pearson Engineering)
