Precision Planting, Swift Harvesting: AI Robots Take Over Russia’s Agricultural Frontlines
Around 40% of Russian agricultural enterprises already use digital tools and AI—part of a strategic push to significantly boost yields with advanced automation.
From Manual Tools to Digital Fields
The significance of digitalization in Russian agriculture is reflected in its flagship annual event—Field Day—organized by the Ministry of Agriculture. In 2025, the central session focused on 'Smart Agriculture: Digital Tools for Growth.'
Today, agriculture leads Russia in productivity growth—up 55% over the past decade. Much of this momentum stems from digital technologies that have replaced traditional tools with AI-enabled solutions.
Autonomous Farming, Made in Russia
Automated systems now handle nearly every task—soil treatment, weeding, crop monitoring, and seeding. These technologies are being adopted across all Russian regions. Minister Oksana Luth highlights robotic systems, self-driving equipment, and agrodrones—all designed to operate without human input.
AI is used to manage operations, storage, logistics, and sales. Even complex tasks like weeding and trenching rice fields are handled by ArvaTec MoonDino robots, which now work autonomously for up to 16 hours and maintain accuracy on both dry and flooded soil.
Following the imposition of Western tech sanctions in 2022, Russian developers rapidly localized their software, making the country self-sufficient in agricultural IT solutions. These innovations are now being positioned for export to partner countries.
Looking ahead to 2030, Russia plans to fully replace foreign agtech software. A national Competence Center is spearheading seven projects, including three focused on crop production.
Next-Gen Tools and Digital Integration
In 2025, Russia will launch Agropoint, a digital marketplace aggregating all available agricultural software and services for immediate or adaptable use.
The development of new crop varieties and hybrids using AI will continue. In animal husbandry, AI is being applied to genetics and breeding. 'Genetics is a deeply high-tech field tied directly to digitalization and artificial intelligence,' notes Vladimir Maslov, Chairman of the Board at AGROECO Group. 'We are looking at increased investment in capacity and sales—both domestically and internationally.'
State information systems will also become more accessible and business-friendly. Once integrated, these GIS platforms will provide farmers with essential analytics to boost efficiency.
A Strategic National Priority
Russia is preparing its workforce for this digital shift. Retraining programs support current professionals, while younger generations are already learning robotics, drone operation, and satellite data usage in agrotechnical schools.
President Vladimir Putin has set a target to increase agricultural output by 25% and boost food exports by 1.5 times—goals that will solidify food security and improve affordability. Meeting them requires nothing less than a full-scale digital transformation of Russian agriculture.
