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Knowledge Base

Wheat Pilot

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Pilot Leader

AFL

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Biogeographical region of the Pilot

Central Lithuania, Baltic area

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Sector

Arable wheat open field

Range of digital technologies

Data Management Platform, AI-based Digital Twin system, process-based models, AI & Machine Vision, field localization and mapping system, robotic systems (retrofit tractor and Direct Injection Spraying (DIS) system).

Target stakeholders

End-users (farmers, farmers’ associations & cooperatives), agronomists & advisors, agri-food technology manufacturers, AI/Data/Robotics providers, AI, Data and Robotics DIHs, Policy Makers & Standardisation Bodies.

Short description of the Pilot

The SmartDroplets system will be deployed in open wheat fields in central Lithuania in order to evaluate and test its components and their efficiency. The focus of the pilot will be on chemical weeding, nitrogen fertilisation and fungicide applications, utilising state-of-the-art technologies, especially the most relevant advances in AI, Data, and robotics, such as a robotic platform, to perform autonomous waypoint navigation tasks, navigation algorithms, to optimise operation and navigation costs, AI algorithms to supervise the chemical selection and spraying prescriptions, etc.

Major goal

Yield increase by 15-20% per annum, chemical use decrease, operational costs decrease.

Progress & Milestones

Initial Setup & Deployment - The Journey to Lithuania

The pilot phase began with extensive tractor modifications in France through a strategic partnership between AGreenCulture (retrofit and safety systems), Eurecat (navigation and geolocation technology), and AGROMA (Direct Injection Spraying system development). After successful integration, the fully equipped autonomous tractor was deployed to Agrokoncernas' facilities in Lithuania for field testing.

Late 2024

First Open Day & Community Demonstration

AgriFood Lithuania, working with project coordinator AUA, hosted a landmark demonstration that drew over 100 local farmers and agricultural stakeholders. This inaugural showcase introduced the Smart Droplets system to the Lithuanian agricultural community through live demonstrations of the autonomous tractor and precision sprayer technology. The event generated strong interest and provided valuable feedback for system improvements.

March 2025

Full System Integration Testing

During an intensive week-long field testing campaign, the complete Smart Droplets system proved its performance in real wheat field conditions. The international technical team successfully demonstrated advanced autonomous capabilities, achieving a breakthrough in trajectory recording and replay functionality. This milestone represents significant progress toward repeatable, high-precision field operations that substantially reduce chemical inputs and environmental impact.

Upcoming - Late 2025

Advanced Capabilities Showcase

Building on proven system performance, the next demonstration will highlight expanded Smart Droplets capabilities, including precision chemical weeding and targeted nitrogen fertilization in wheat cultivation. Registration details and event dates will be announced soon.