Procurement of robotics under the new rules: the role of GOST in assessing the reliability of suppliers

On March 1, 2026, a key state standard regulating the introduction of robotic complexes (RTCs) in the oil and gas industry began to operate in Russia. According to TASS, the document establishes uniform requirements for quality management systems for the production and operation of ground robots.

This initiative, developed by the industry competence center for robotics, is designed to systematize the market for innovative developments for the fuel and energy complex and make the process of their implementation transparent for all participants.

Formation of a single "coordinate scale"

The implementation of the state standard creates clear technical regulations for the production of high-tech equipment. Previously, the lack of uniform rules created difficulties: it was difficult for customers to assess the reliability of systems, and small technology companies did not always have sufficient expertise to ensure stable serial quality.

According to Sergey Vyborov, head of the department of the industry competence center, this GOST is the first step towards a set of standards that will make the process of creating and launching innovations predictable, regardless of the scale of the development company.

Key changes for market participants:

• Transparency of qualification selections. GOST gives ITO departments clear criteria for evaluating production processes in the field of RTK, which minimizes technological risks when choosing a supplier.

• Reducing integration risks. Common requirements make it possible to integrate solutions from different manufacturers into the overall IT infrastructure of an enterprise without the excessive adaptation costs that previously arose when using unique "pilot" models.

• HSE safety and compliance. The standard strictly regulates the operation of ground robots in hazardous areas and aggressive environments, which is a critical requirement of industrial safety services.

• Technology business support. Having clear rules of the game helps companies, both large players and small engineering centers, to go through the approval stages faster and enter serial deliveries.

Areas of application of the new regulations

The new rules will affect RTCs designed for:

- Automated drilling and well maintenance;

- On-site logistics and warehouse operations;

- Monitoring of industrial safety and ecology.

The introduction of GOST moves robotics from the category of complex experiments to the category of standard industrial equipment. For the industry, this means the transition to systematic import substitution and the possibility of long-term planning investments in automation based on proven technological solutions.

It is important to note that along with the introduction of new standards, other verification tools continue to work effectively in the industry. So, to find verified contractors, companies use the Register of Basic Fuel and Energy Sector Suppliers, where companies are evaluated directly by the customers themselves based on the experience of real cooperation. The combination of state quality control and market assessment of reputation allows us to form the most complete picture of the reliability of a potential partner.


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