In the spotlight of the defence industry: 5.0 Robotics advances to the frontlines.
- Mart Siilivask
- May 8
- 7 min read
What connects Estonian company 5.0 Robotics with a renowned Formula 1 team in the UK, an Australian doctor developing medical prototypes, a small-scale manufacturer in Sweden designing custom bicycle frames, and a tiny woodworking workshop in Estonia? They all use intelligent, compact, and energy-efficient manufacturing solutions from 5.0 Robotics.
These machines are used for cutting, milling, drilling, and other precision processing of various materials. The defence industry has also expressed interest in the company’s innovative AI-driven manufacturing systems.
When one thinks of a company manufacturing machine tools that enable its clients to produce various components, one might expect a large factory. However, 5.0 Robotics’ current production facility is located in Tähesaju City, Lasnamäe, which is known for its commercial buildings and businesses. Their neighbours include a coffee shop on one side and a furniture store on the other—not the typical surroundings for a manufacturing plant.
Instead of focusing solely on full automation (Industry 4.0), 5.0 Robotics embraces the Industry 5.0 concept, where human expertise and automated machine tools work together to achieve optimal efficiency and precision. The company manages the entire production process in-house, from control systems and wiring to design and assembly. Only standard components are sourced externally.
Upon entering the facility, one is first struck by the quiet and compact nature of the space, which resembles a modern, large, loft-style open apartment. The ground floor houses the assembly and testing area for CNC machines. While some machines are running and employees are testing them using laptops, the noise level is minimal, and conversations can occur without raising one’s voice.
Towards the back, a warehouse holds several large wooden crates containing machines ready to be shipped to a customer in Singapore. 5.0 Robotics’ offices are located on the upper level, where a loft owner might have a bedroom. Due to rapid growth and limited production space, the company is already looking for a larger manufacturing space.
We were welcomed by 5.0 Robotics’ Sales Manager, Ilaria Perla, who explained the company’s activities, export markets, clientele, and future outlook.
What is a CNC machine, and what does 5.0 Robotics do?
A CNC machine, or Computer Numerical Control machine, is a computer-controlled tool used for cutting, milling, drilling, and other precision material processing. These machines operate based on pre-programmed instructions that control their movement and operations, ensuring high accuracy and repeatability—two crucial factors in manufacturing.
As for 5.0 Robotics, we are a small Estonian company developing innovative, energy-efficient, modular CNC machines. Our products are aimed at prototyping and small-scale production, allowing our clients to process a wide range of materials, from wood and plastic to aluminium and composites, with precision, speed, and efficiency.
How did the idea for 5.0 Robotics originate, and what was the initial vision?
Rory Stoney, Carlo Lustrissimi, and Taavi Laur founded 5.0 Robotics. Each brought different expertise to the company—engineering, daily operations management, and finance—to change the CNC machining industry. The idea was born when Carlo, a financial consultant at the time, purchased a CNC machine from Stoney CNC as a hobby for woodworking. Carlo was impressed by the reliability of CNC technology. The business took shape when combined with Taavi’s expertise in scaling production and Rory’s frustration over the market’s lack of high-performance yet easy-to-maintain CNC machines. Their goal was to make manufacturing accessible and provide affordable, practical, high-quality CNC machines for businesses of all sizes.
Interestingly, the company was founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, and travel restrictions prevented Rory from coming to Estonia. Nevertheless, the first Executive Series machines were successfully assembled thanks to detailed documentation, confirming the founders’ belief that their modular and maintainable design enabled even non-specialists to construct and operate the systems efficiently.
“Some of our most exciting customers include an Australian doctor who uses our machine to create medical prototypes for patients, a Swedish luxury bicycle manufacturer designing custom frames tailored to the buyer’s height and weight, and a well-known UK Formula 1 team that relies on our CNC machine for rapid prototyping and precision component manufacturing. Soon, another F1 team will join our client list.”
Ilaria Perla, 5.0 Robotics’ Sales Manager
What products are you currently developing, and what are their main applications? What is their price range?
Our flagship products are the Executive Series CNC machines, designed for various industries ranging from prototyping to small-batch production. These machines offer solutions for high-mix, low-volume manufacturing and can process a variety of materials, including wood, aluminium, plastics, and composites.
Our best-selling models combine affordability, mobility, industrial performance, and energy efficiency. For example, our Executive Series machine consumes roughly the same electricity per hour as a standard hairdryer.
Prices vary depending on configuration but generally range between €35,000 and €50,000, offering a cost-effective alternative to more extensive industrial solutions.
Additionally, we are developing the MiniFactory, a compact and self-contained manufacturing unit approximately the size of a 20-foot shipping container. It uses multi-axis robotic arms, gantry systems, and other mechatronic components. Equipped with AI and visual recognition systems, these robots can perform complex tasks- measuring, glueing, laser welding, and fastening—all within a single production unit.
MiniFactory stands out as an Industry 5.0 hybrid solution. Suppose a task is too complex or expensive to automate fully. In that case, a human can seamlessly take over the process, ensuring the best balance between automation, which is the most beneficial, and human expertise, which is the most needed.
Who are your primary customers, and which industries currently use your products?
Our CNC machines are widely used in industries requiring precision machining, mainly where traditional industrial production is inaccessible or too costly. Key sectors include healthcare and medical technology, the automotive and motorsport industries, the defence sector, and bespoke product manufacturers producing custom components.
Some of our most exciting customers include an Australian doctor who uses our machine to create medical prototypes for patients, a Swedish luxury bicycle manufacturer designing custom frames tailored to the buyer’s height and weight, and a well-known UK Formula 1 team that relies on our CNC machine for rapid prototyping and precision component manufacturing. Soon, another F1 team will join our client list.
Interest in our machines is growing in the defence industry, particularly in producing military equipment components and prototypes and addressing logistical challenges on the battlefield.
Let’s talk about the defence industry and its interest in your technology.
Although our primary focus has always been civilian and industrial applications, we have observed increasing interest from the defence sector. We are currently exploring collaboration opportunities with defence subcontractors and government agencies that aim at scaling production through reliable, easy-to-use, flexible systems.
The main reason for this interest is the ability to produce spare parts, custom components, and prototypes directly on or near the frontlines as the machine can operate off-grid. This provides a strategic advantage by reducing dependence on complex international supply chains.
Our solutions are valued in the defence sector for several key features that enable efficient and flexible manufacturing in demanding conditions:
On-site production capability: Our compact machines support decentralised manufacturing, allowing rapid repairs and modifications at the point of need.
Autonomous operation: They can function offline, with built-in battery packs and compatibility with small generators, making them usable in remote locations with unstable power supplies.
Material versatility: Our machines can precisely process aluminium, carbon fibre, steel, and composites—all widely used in the defence industry.
AI-powered SmartBox technology enables operators with minimal CNC experience to manage complex manufacturing processes. Real-time monitoring and automatic optimisation ensure smooth and accurate production while reducing errors.
Data security: Our machines, equipped with military-grade IT infrastructure and VIASAT self-encrypting storage, ensure maximum protection of sensitive data
Thanks to these features, our Executive Series offers high precision, versatility, and reliability, making them ideal for mission-critical defence applications.
Earlier this year, you also participated in one of the world’s largest defence industry exhibitions, IDEX. What did you showcase there?
At the IDEX defence industry exhibition, we demonstrated our products’ remote-control capabilities. During the event, a manufacturing machine named Battle Beaver, located 5000 km away in Tallinn, was remotely operated. Remote control capabilities are especially crucial during critical moments when supply chains are highly vulnerable, bringing precision manufacturing to factories and the frontlines.
“Although our primary focus has always been civilian and industrial applications, we have observed increasing interest from the defence sector. We are currently exploring collaboration opportunities with defence subcontractors and government agencies.”
Ilaria Perla, 5.0 Robotics’ Sales Manager
Which countries do you export to, and which markets are your priority? What are your next target markets?
Today’s main export markets include Europe, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, and Denmark. Additionally, we serve clients in the United States. Our priority remains the European market, as the region has a strong industrial base and an increasing demand for digital manufacturing solutions. At the same time, we are expanding into Asia, where we already have partners in Singapore and have successfully exported our products.
Looking ahead, we see potential in developing countries where local manufacturing is becoming increasingly important, particularly in regions investing in small-scale production to reduce reliance on imports.
What are 5.0 Robotics’ plans for products and new technologies?
Our goal is to make CNC technology more accessible without compromising machine performance. To achieve this, we focus on several key areas.
First, we are developing user-friendly software based on artificial intelligence. These solutions will simplify CNC machine operation, even for those without prior experience. Second, we are investing in automation and AI-powered features. In collaboration with TalTech, we are developing a predictive maintenance system that enables CNC machines to use a digital twin to detect anomalies in the machining process. This helps prevent failures and optimises production. Third, we offer modular upgrades that allow customers to enhance their CNC machines over time, avoiding purchasing entirely new systems. This ensures greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness for our clients.
GOOD TO KNOW
Established: 2020
Business sector: machine and metal industry
Revenue: 509 090 € (2023)
Employees: 7
Are you interested in trading with Estonia? Enterprise Estonia is providing sourcing service for foreign enterprises. Contact Estonian export advisors or use our free e-consulting service to start trade with Estonia.
Comments