Norwegian People´s Aid (NPA) contracted MineWolf Systems in June 2005 to provide a self-sufficient mechanical infrastructure for its demining program in Sudan. Following an in-depth feasibility study assessing supply and transport routes in the region, MineWolf Systems mobilised the following equipment:

• MineWolf unit, including cabin, tiller and flail attachment)
• 8x8 workshop truck with off-road trailer carrying the MineWolf
• 6x6 crane truck with bridging equipment and trailer carrying two 12" containers for shelter and storage
• Extensive spare parts package stored in 20" container

MineWolf in action in Southern Sudan

On October 1st, 2005 the equipment arrived in Port Mombasa (Kenya) and was transported over 2500 km overland via Uganda to its final destination in Yei, Southern Sudan. MineWolf Systems provided a team of three to accompany the transport and take care of the equipment. Upon arrival the infrastructure was set-up and training started within the NPA camp. A number of candidates were selected from the local community and trained to operate and support the MineWolf. Only two weeks later, on October 31st, 2005 operations started on the first task near the town of Yei.

During the first month of operations a variety of tasks were completed including:

• Ronyi danger area, abandoned St. Augustine Seminary School complex

135,000 m², dense vegetation, UXO and AP mines

• UNHCR housing compound, Yei

28,000 m², dense vegetation, UXO and AP mines

• JRS teacher training centre in Lutaya, Yei

13,0000 m², medium vegetation, AP mines, rapid deployment after accident

• Airfield extension, Yei

38,000 m², dense vegetation, UXO and AP mines

• Yei-Juba road, confrontation line at 40 miles

62,000 m², road and verges, UXO, AP and AT mines

NPA continues to operate a MineWolf in Sudan, with particular success during the monsoon season of 2007 where 200,922 square meters were covered during a single month (September) at the mile 38 site 3 hours southwest of Juba.

FSD Deployment

In 2006, the Swiss demining organisation Fondation Suisse de Déminage (FSD), funded by the UNOPS, purchased 2 MineWolf machines for demining tasks along the Wau-Warrup road which had been closed for over 20 years due to mine contamination. The package included all necessary means to support the two units independently at separate worksites throughout Sudan. MineWolf Systems delivered two fully mobile camps transported with special 6x6 and 8x8 off-road trucks with crane capacities and off-road trailers. Each unit is supported by a mobile workshop and a comprehensive spare parts package.

Summary

During the period 31 Oct. 2005 - 31 Oct. 2007, 3 MineWolf machines operated by NPA and FSD with support from MineWolf Systems have cleared over 2,931,000 m² in Sudan, successful engaging and clearing both AP and AT mines. The tasks included work around housing compounds, roads, agricultural land, swamp, forest and rocky areas. The machine was successfully operated in hot and dry conditions, as well as during the muddy monsoon season.

MineWolf Clearance Performance in Sudan: Oct. 2005 - Oct. 2007