Latvia Boosts Ukraine’s Military with Drone Delivery
Latvia has officially commenced the delivery of a new batch of 500 combat drones to Ukraine, significantly enhancing the nation’s military capabilities. This move is part of a broader international coalition dedicated to supporting Kyiv amidst ongoing conflicts. The initiative involves two Latvian companies collaborating to produce an impressive total of 12,000 drones, which are valued at approximately 17 million euros ($17.7 million) and are expected to be completed in the coming months.
In 2024, the drone coalition—comprising 17 nations, led by Latvia and the UK—has earmarked 1.8 billion euros ($1.9 billion) to further bolster Ukraine’s military strength. Latvia has pledged 20 million euros ($21.1 million) to this cause for 2024 and plans to match this contribution in the current year. Last year alone, Riga supplied nearly 5,000 drones to Ukraine, showcasing its commitment to bolstering its ally’s defense.
Emerging as a Drone Superpower
Latvia’s active involvement in the international drone coalition not only supports Ukraine but also catalyzes advancements in its own drone manufacturing sector. This initiative is bolstering national defense while simultaneously fostering growth within the local defense industry. Local companies are capitalizing on the opportunity to participate in international contracts, thus expanding their presence in the global marketplace.
Defense Minister Andris Sprūds emphasized Latvia’s ambition to become a drone superpower, stating, “By assisting Ukraine, we are not only strengthening our industrial capabilities but also enhancing our defense mechanisms.” This dual focus on support for Ukraine and national capability development marks a significant step for Latvia in the global defense arena.
Funding the Future of Defense
In May of last year, the Latvian government allocated 20 million euros ($21.8 million) to create a ‘drone army’ for its armed forces. This initiative emphasizes the modernization of Latvia’s military capabilities and aims to cultivate partnerships with local drone manufacturers. The strategic plan outlines that half of the funding will be directed towards purchasing drones from domestic companies.
The remaining funds are dedicated to establishing a mobile training and testing ground in Selia, located in the southern region of Latvia. This facility will serve as a crucial resource for training personnel, ensuring that the armed forces are well-prepared to effectively utilize the new drone technology.
