Unmanned aerial vehicle

National Armed Force (NAF) Development Plan for 2025-2036 was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers on 23 July 2024. It presents the long and medium term development vision based on current treat levels and potential shifts. Plan envisages the development of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and precision-guided munition (PGM) capabilities within NAF. According to the plan, a total of 255.2 million EUR is expected to be invested in the development of BPLA’s capabilities during the 2025–2032 period.

NAF has developed and adopted a UAV System Development Concept that will facilitate implementation of the plan. Concept defines the architecture, implementation, controls and training guidelines for the NAF drone systems. According to the Concept, NAF functions require implementation of different-level UAV and PGM systems, from section/division level to strategic level. UAV and PGM systems will be implemented across all types of forces – air, land and sea. This will also include National Guard and contribute to higher surveillance, reconnaissance and indirect fire support control capabilities.

NAF Air Force Training Centre launched extensive UAV operator training programme in 2024. Operators are also be selected from National Defence Service members. It is planned to Continue development of Centre’s capabilities and capacity to train UAV teams and turn it into NAF Centre of Excellence for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.

Defence sector is working in close conjunction with domestic drone industry players who help develop various systems, provide expertise and engage with NAF and armed forces of other countries in developing tailored UAV systems. This enhances the security of supply and promotes growth of local industry.

On September 3, 2025, the Center of Excellence for Autonomous Systems was inaugurated; its primary mission is to provide the NAF with air, sea, and land drones to strengthen the NAF capabilities. The center will support the NAF in drone deployment and training, conduct testing of drones and anti-drone systems, and foster international cooperation and joint projects. The center is also tasked with ensuring the continuity of drone supplies to the NAF in the event of a crisis, as well as supporting Latvian companies in drone development and manufacturing, and promoting innovation and cooperation with industry.

To promote support for Ukraine and develop the capabilities of the NAF, the Drone Coalition was established in December 2023 as a new capability initiative, following an agreement between the Ukrainian and Latvian Ministers of DefenCe within the framework of the Ramstein Process. The Coalition also helps build the capabilities of Latvia’s national defenCe industry by providing support through drone testing at a proving ground under the guidance of military experts. An additional 50 million euros will be invested in the Drone Coalition in 2026.