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Latvia Launches EUR 10 Million Counter-Drone R&D Initiative to Strengthen National Defense.
The Latvian Ministry of Defence has announced an important step towards enhancing the country’s security by signing three research and development (R&D) contracts aimed at improving counter-drone capabilities. This initiative, estimated at EUR 10 million, aims to foster advancements in defense technology, positioning Latvia as a leader in the development of independent and competitive defense solutions. It is part of the country's broader strategy to improve its short-range air defense systems and reduce dependence on external suppliers.
Latvia signed three research and development (R&D) contracts aimed at improving counter-drone capabilities. (Picture source: Latvian MoD)
Defence Minister Andris Sprūds emphasized the strategic importance of these agreements, which are aimed at strengthening Latvia's ability to protect itself against aerial threats, particularly drones. The focus is on enhancing Latvia's national defense framework through innovative technologies, including automated drone interceptors, electronic warfare solutions, and guided missile systems specifically designed for counter-drone operations. These measures are part of the country's efforts to contribute to the development of European counter-drone solutions, ensuring that Latvia plays a central role in reducing reliance on suppliers from third countries.
The projects will have an impact on Latvia’s air defense capabilities by targeting drones, an increasingly prevalent threat in modern warfare. Drones have proven their utility in numerous military fields, ranging from surveillance and intelligence gathering to carrying out direct attacks. Therefore, this initiative particularly focuses on the need to track the evolution of these threats and keep Latvia at the forefront of counter-drone technologies.
The three R&D contracts have been awarded to key industry players: Origin Robotics, SAF Tehnika, and Frankenburg Technologies. These companies will focus on developing cutting-edge technologies for counter-drone defense, including automated systems to intercept hostile drones, advanced electronic warfare solutions to disrupt drone operations, and guided missile systems to effectively neutralize aerial threats. Each partner brings specific expertise in their respective fields, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the challenge of drone warfare.
Moreover, a fourth project is in the final stages of negotiation. This project will adapt existing Latvian Armed Forces weapon systems for specific counter-drone roles. It is expected to be carried out in collaboration with the company WeMPS and will help bolster the country’s preparedness against aerial threats by integrating existing military hardware into a more integrated and flexible defense framework.
The R&D initiative is structured to allow the inclusion of additional partners, including academic institutions, NATO or EU member states, and other international organizations. This collaborative approach ensures that Latvia benefits from the collective expertise of its allies, especially as lessons from the ongoing war in Ukraine inform the development of new technologies. Through these international partnerships, Latvia is positioning itself as a central player in the development of European defense solutions.
The contract structure is also designed to remain flexible, allowing for adjustments as new technologies emerge and the security landscape evolves. This flexibility is crucial in an era where technological advances occur rapidly, and the ability to adapt quickly is essential to maintaining a competitive advantage.
The R&D projects will be co-financed by the Ministry of Defence and the industry partners, with a cost-sharing arrangement of 65% from the defense sector and 35% from the involved companies. The total investment in the initiative is expected to reach EUR 10 million, with the potential for additional increases as new partners join the projects or as further funding becomes available. This partnership model fosters strong synergy between the government and the private sector, ensuring the efficient use of resources to achieve the program’s objectives.
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that it will retain the rights to use the technologies developed under the initiative. However, it will also allow industry partners to market these solutions internationally, thus increasing the potential for Latvian innovations to be adopted by other nations and contributing to the country’s global position in the defense technology sector.
To ensure the rapid and secure implementation of these projects, the Latvian Ministry of Defence will provide access to its owned infrastructure for testing purposes. This will facilitate the development and quick deployment of counter-drone solutions while ensuring they meet the required standards for operational effectiveness. Using Ministry-owned facilities will also streamline the testing and integration process, thus allowing for a faster development timeline.
Latvia’s EUR 10 million counter-drone R&D initiative represents a decisive step forward in strengthening national defense capabilities. By investing in cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaboration with industry leaders, Latvia is reinforcing its commitment to improving its security while contributing to the European effort to develop independent and competitive defense solutions. This project not only strengthens Latvia's defense infrastructure but also positions the country as a leader in the global defense technology sector. With the support of international partners and a flexible approach to innovation, Latvia is well on its way to becoming a key player in the field of counter-drone warfare.