NATO’s Innovation Range for uncrewed systems held in Sēlija

From March 9th to 13th the first NATO Innovation Range for uncrewed system solutions took place at the Sēlija Military Training Area. The event brought together defence industry companies from NATO member states and Ukraine, as well as military experts and representatives of government institutions. 

“Sēlija Military Training  is not only a training environment for units of the Latvian National Armed forces and Allied armed forces, but also a unique ecosystem where the latest technologies and innovations meet the military environment. The development of drones and interceptor systems no longer is just a vision for the future – it is a critical necessity today. By conducting these tests in field conditions, we are both identifying the most effective technological solutions and gaining valuable experience for the future,” said Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds. 

During NATO’s Innovation Range, companies, in cooperation with technical experts from the Autonomous Systems Competence Centre and NATO member states, demonstrated and practically tested the capabilities of their developed technologies under real-life conditions. At the same time, defence experts from NATO countries provided feedback on the readiness of these solutions for practical deployment. 

This was the first of several NATO Innovation Range events planned for this year. The next one will take place in May during the upcoming international Drone Summit, which is scheduled for May 27th in Riga. 

NATO’s Innovation Range serve as a platform that allows defence technology companies to practically test their developed solutions and demonstrate them to military experts and decision-makers from NATO member states. 

The growing use of unmanned aerial systems in military operations worldwide means that interceptor systems are becoming an essential element of modern air defence and force protection. Testing campaigns like these help accelerate the development of innovative solutions and their transition into operational use. 

The Selonia Military Training Area provides a suitable environment for such testing, enabling both high-speed and high-altitude interceptor flights as well as testing of various electronic warfare solutions in an open environment. 

NATO’s Innovation Range for uncrewed systems was organised by the Autonomous Systems Competence Centre, which is responsible for air, land and maritime drones, as well as various counter-drone solutions. 

The activities of the Autonomous Systems Competence Centre are ensured by the State Centre for Defence Logistics and Procurement, which, by combining innovation, research and procurement expertise, creates a link between the operational needs of the National Armed Forces and the development and implementation of new technologies.

Information prepared by:
MoD Military Public Affairs Department
Media Relations Section
Phone: 67335419
E-mail: prese@mod.gov.lv