Latvia has embarked on a significant initiative to bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities by sending a new batch of 500 combat drones as part of an international coalition aimed at supporting the embattled nation. This latest delivery is part of a larger strategy involving two Latvian companies that have committed to producing a total of 12,000 drones valued at 17 million euros (approximately $17.7 million) in the upcoming months.
Looking ahead to 2024, the drone coalition, which is comprised of 17 nations and is primarily led by Latvia and the United Kingdom, has committed a total of 1.8 billion euros (around $1.9 billion) to enhance Ukraine’s defense. Latvia itself has contributed 20 million euros ($21.1 million) toward this effort in 2024, with plans to allocate an equivalent amount for the next year. In a display of sustained support, Riga had also supplied nearly 5,000 drones to Kyiv the previous year.
Latvia’s growing role within the international drone coalition has not only aided Ukraine but has also led to notable advancements in drone manufacturing domestically. This initiative is enhancing Latvia’s national defense capabilities while simultaneously fostering the growth of its local defense industry. Latvian companies are increasingly gaining access to international tenders, thereby expanding their global footprint.
“Andris Sprūds, the Latvian Defence Minister, remarked, ‘Latvia is on the way to becoming a drone superpower – by helping Ukraine, we strengthen our industry and defense capabilities’,” highlighting the dual benefits of the partnership.
In a move to enhance its armed forces, the Latvian government took proactive measures in May of last year by dedicating 20 million euros ($21.8 million) to establish a “drone army.” This initiative aims to modernize the military capabilities of Latvia and foster collaborations with local drone manufacturers. The funding strategy allocated half of the budget for purchasing drones from national companies, while the remainder is being used to create a mobile training and testing facility in Selia, located in the southern part of the country.
This concerted effort underscores Latvia’s commitment to advancing both its defense sector and international partnerships, with the intent of becoming a key player in drone technology.
