Latvia establishes an Autonomous Systems Competence Centre

On Wednesday, 28 May, during the Drone Summit, Minister of Defence of Republic of Latvia Andris Sprūds announced the establishment and opening of a Competence Centre for Autonomous Systems — also referred to as the Drone Competence Centre — scheduled for this autumn.

"Strengthening the 'Drone Army' or drone capabilities within the National Armed Forces is one of the top priorities for the defence sector. To promote the broader use of unmanned systems within the National Armed Forces, support their production in Latvia, stimulate innovation and drone technology development, and foster international partnerships, we will establish a Drone Competence Centre. It is intended to become an active platform linking the needs of the National Armed Forces, cooperation with industry, and international supply chains," said Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds.

The upcoming centre will be responsible for air, land, and sea drones, as well as various counter-drone solutions.

The main tasks of the centre will include ensuring the continuity of supply of autonomous systems and their components to the National Armed Forces in times of crisis, supporting Latvian companies in drone manufacturing by fostering innovation and industry collaboration, and assisting the National Armed Forces with drone training and testing, including providing facilities for drone testing.

The ambition of the Competence Centre for Autonomous Systems is to become an internationally recognized European-level centre, attracting experts, representatives, and funding from other countries.

The Drone Competence Centre will be headed by one of Latvia’s leading military drone specialists—Commander of the Air Force Training Centre, Major Modris Kairišs.

Prepared by:
MOD Media Relations Section
Military Public Affairs Department
Phone: 67335210
E-mail: prese@mod.gov.lv