Russia Develops Robot for Rapid Soil Analysis

Russian company Cognitive Pilot, known for its work on autonomous transport systems, has unveiled a breakthrough AI-powered robot for rapid analysis of agricultural land. The device has already been successfully tested in eight regions of Russia, and a manufacturing plant in Tomsk is preparing to launch serial production.

“Looking” 60 Centimeters Below the Surface

The robot, Cognitive Terra Sense, has demonstrated unprecedented speed and depth of soil analysis. It can be mounted on a standard tractor or other agricultural machinery. The system is capable of probing soil down to a depth of 60 centimeters and delivering data on 100 key parameters within just 12 hours — ranging from nutrient and micronutrient content to moisture levels and acidity. By contrast, traditional soil analysis requires samples to be sent to specialized laboratories, with results often taking up to 14 days.

Deploying such robots in agriculture could increase crop yields, reduce land treatment costs, and minimize environmental impact. According to estimates from the industry association InterAgroTech, fertilizer savings from using Cognitive Terra Sense could reach 20 to 25 percent. The economic benefit from optimized fertilizer application is estimated at 20 to 40 million rubles (about $240,000–$480,000) per single fertilization cycle across 10,000 hectares. For large agricultural enterprises, the total effect could run into billions of rubles.

Market Potential Estimated in the Billions

Previously, the GeoMir group announced the launch of the digital platform AssistAgro (Agro Assistant), marking a new stage in the development of its flagship product Field History. The platform analyzes agricultural enterprise data and converts it into ready-made management decisions, using 15 artificial intelligence models and precision farming modules.