Boston Dynamics is proud to announce it has been awarded a multi-year contract by the Dutch Ministry of Defence to deliver and support Spot for use by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams. The agreement includes an initial delivery of 19 units, with options for additional systems over the next five years. 

The contract marks a significant step in integrating agile mobile robots as a way to keep operators out of harm’s way in defense operations. 

The Defence Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service (DEODS) has been setting the standard for detecting, identifying, and disposing of suspicious packages, explosives and IEDs for more than 80 years. The DEODs has on average 2,000-2,500 interventions of suspect devices, UXOs, WWII munitions, IEDs, and more. 

Investigate, Identify, Render Safe

Spot’s capabilities bring a significant modernization to the use of robotics in the work performed by the DEODS. Its agile mobility enables operators to traverse uneven, unstructured terrain with ease. With full eyes on the scene, and manipulation enabled by Spot Arm – threats can be evaluated and next steps can be determined remotely without having to put people in harm’s way. 

Once the team has the information they need, Spot can be equipped with a disrupter to render the target safe. With a full disrupter integration kit from our technology partner ELP GmbH, operators can safely dispose of the device or package.

“Selection of Spot by the Dutch Ministry of Defence shows the growing recognition of multi-mission QUGVs as tools for the modern operator,” said Selma Svendsen, Chief Operating Officer at Boston Dynamics. “Our robots are able to keep personnel out of harm’s way, while extending the ability of operators to make the best decisions with full situational awareness and unprecedented mobility.” 

In addition to applications for bomb disposal, the Dutch Ministry of Defence will explore future capabilities and uses in other parts of its military. Spot’s multiple payload integrations mean robots can be tailored to support a variety of missions, from tactical awareness, to chemical, biological, and radiological (CBRN) threat detection. 


Boston Dynamics will provide ongoing training, maintenance and technical support in the Netherlands to ensure the systems are fully operational throughout the contract. This agreement underscores Boston Dynamics’ commitment to advancing robotic technology in support of public safety and defense, while maintaining the company’s longstanding focus on responsible and ethical deployment.