Press Release 17.8.2026
KESLA Defence introduces a new concrete drilling solution that enables the installation of anti-tank mines and other countermobility systems in concrete structures. The new capability expands the operational scope of the KESLA Kerberos system from asphalt surfaces to concrete structures, including airport runways, bridges, ports, and concrete-casted highways.
The solution will be unveiled for the first time at the international DALO Industry Days event in Herning, Denmark, on 19–20 August 2026.
Kerberos Developed for a Real Operational Need
Kesla has been developing mobile solutions for combat engineers since 2018. KESLA Kerberos was created in close cooperation with end users to address the growing mobility and countermobility challenges of the modern battlefield. The system enables the rapid and efficient installation of anti-tank mines in demanding terrain conditions.
The first Kerberos systems entered operational service in Finland during 2021–2022, after which the solution has attracted increasing international interest. Kerberos systems are currently in service in three countries.
Countermobility Capability Expands to Critical Infrastructure
Until now, KESLA Kerberos has enabled efficient mechanized anti-tank mine emplacement in difficult terrain and on asphalt-paved areas. The development of the new concrete drill was driven by requirements identified in several European NATO countries for the ability to install countermobility systems in concrete structures as well and thereby protect critical infrastructure.
The Kerberos system now enables the emplacement of anti-tank mines and countermobility systems in virtually all key transportation and infrastructure environments, regardless of whether the target consists of hard soil, asphalt, or concrete. This opens new possibilities for influencing airport runways, bridges, port areas, concrete highways, and other operationally significant infrastructure targets. At the same time, operators can utilize the same Kerberos system across a wide range of tactical scenarios without requiring separate specialized machines or dedicated drilling systems.
ILS Concept Enhances Operational Availability
One of the key advantages of the new solution is its compatibility with the existing Kerberos system. The concrete drill is largely based on the same core technology as the currently fielded asphalt drilling unit. This enables users to significantly expand their operational capability without acquiring an entirely new system.
KESLA Defence is also introducing a support concept around the new drilling solution. Used drill bits will be returned to KESLA Defence for maintenance and refurbishment before being sent back into service. The objective is to reduce the logistical burden on users and ensure high system availability even during prolonged operations without delays.
Patent Application Filed
KESLA Defence filed a patent application for the new concrete drilling solution in July 2026. The solution incorporates several innovations related to the implementation of a mobile concrete drilling system specifically designed for combat engineering operations.
Comment
“Kerberos was originally developed to enable rapid, mission-oriented countermobility operations in terrain and road networks. The new concrete drilling solution extends the same operational concept to critical infrastructure. Users can now employ the same system across highly diverse environments, including airports, bridges, port areas, concrete infrastructure, and concrete highways.
Several European NATO countries have identified an operational requirement for countermobility in concrete structures. This requirement initiated our R&D that resulted in a solution to a capability gap for which no ready-made system previously existed. Kerberos now offers a unique ability to influence virtually all key transportation and infrastructure targets regardless of the season and whether the structure is based on hard soil, asphalt, or concrete.”
More Information
Kesla Plc
Tapio Pirinen – Director, PMO & Kesla Defence
tel. +358 40 583 8089
tapio.pirinen@kesla.com
Kesla – Your Responsible Partner
Kesla is a responsible partner that develops machinery, technology and services for the sustainable success of its customers, both in and outside the forest. Kesla’s four product groups are: truck and stationary cranes, logging equipment, tractor equipment and KESLA Defence. In 2025, the Group’s turnover was €34,4 million, of which 53% was attributable to export operations. Established in 1960, Kesla has production facilities in Joensuu, Kesälahti and Ilomantsi as well as a sales office in Appenweier, Germany. Kesla currently employs around 200 people. Kesla’s A series shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd. www.kesla.com