Latvia and Ukrainian industry to jointly develop unmanned systems manufacturing and testing
On Thursday, 30 July, a ceremonial signing of Memorandum of Understanding took place at the Ministry of Defence, marking the continuation and expansion of the cooperation launched in early June between Latvian public institutions, Baltic Forces Ltd., and Ukrainian industry. The signed memorandums strengthen cooperation between the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Economics, the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA), Baltic Forces Ltd., Ukrainian partner companies, Riga Technical University, and the Latvian Military Technology, Drones and Robotics Association. Their objective is to promote large-scale investment projects in unmanned systems manufacturing, technology transfer, and the establishment of modern dual-use technology testing infrastructure in Latvia.
"The cooperation formalised through these memorandums is a significant step towards strengthening our national security and the self-sufficiency of Latvia's defence sector. By joining forces, we are creating a strong platform for the accelerated development of military and dual-use technologies in Latvia. It is essential that we equip the National Armed Forces with the most advanced unmanned systems, and therefore the development of domestic manufacturing and testing infrastructure represents a strategic benefit for the entire country," said Minister of Defence Raivis Melnis.
The signed memorandums cover several complementary areas of cooperation, including attracting investment for the development and production of unmanned systems and their components, facilitating technology transfer and strengthening industrial capacity, as well as developing demonstration, testing, and innovation infrastructure. Together, they provide the foundation for a competitive ecosystem for unmanned systems and dual-use technologies in Latvia, supporting investment, innovation, and high value-added manufacturing.
"Today, we are reinforcing a partnership that will foster investment, technology transfer, and the development of new competencies in Latvia. Cooperation with Ukrainian industry offers not only the opportunity to benefit from unique practical experience but also creates the conditions for developing new export products and strengthening Latvia's international competitiveness," said Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis.
A key element of this cooperation is the close partnership with Ukrainian companies, which have gained unique expertise in developing unmanned systems and dual-use solutions under real combat conditions in recent years. This exchange of experience gives Latvia the opportunity not only to attract foreign investment but also to adopt cutting-edge technologies, enhance the expertise of local specialists, and develop new export products capable of competing in international markets.
"These memorandums demonstrate that Latvia is capable of attracting partners with unique technological expertise while creating an environment where investment, science, business, and innovation come together. Our task now is to ensure that this cooperation is transformed as quickly as possible into concrete investment projects and new high value-added jobs," said Ieva Jāgere, Director of the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia.
The cooperation initiated in early June is intended to support the long-term development of unmanned systems and dual-use technologies in Latvia, including research and development, manufacturing, testing, and technology transfer. This partnership will strengthen national security, Latvia's innovation ecosystem, and its high value-added industrial sector.
Information prepared by:
MoD Military Public Affairs Department
Media Relations Section
Phone: 67335129
E-mail: prese@mod.gov.lv
