Representatives of Ukraine and Latvia signed memorandums in Riga on cooperation in the development, production, and testing of unmanned systems.
This was reported by the Latvian Ministry of Defense.
The memorandums strengthen cooperation between the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Economics, the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA), Baltic Forces, Ukrainian partner companies, Riga Technical University, and the Latvian Military Technology, Drone and Robotics Association.
Their aim is to promote major investment projects in unmanned systems production, technology transfer, and the creation of modern infrastructure in Latvia for testing dual-use technologies.
“This cooperation, formalized in the memorandums, is an important step toward strengthening our national security and the self-sufficiency of our defense industry. By joining forces, we are creating a strong platform for the faster development of military and dual-use technologies in Latvia. It is essential that we provide the National Armed Forces with the most advanced unmanned systems solutions, which is why the development of domestic production and testing infrastructure is strategically important for the entire country,” Defense Minister Raivis Melnis said.
The memorandums cover several complementary areas of cooperation, including attracting investment for the development and production of unmanned systems and their components, technology transfer and strengthening industrial capacity, as well as developing demonstration, testing, and innovation infrastructure.
Together, they provide a foundation for the growth of a competitive unmanned systems and dual-use technology ecosystem in Latvia, helping attract investment, foster innovation, and develop high-value-added manufacturing.
“Today, we are strengthening cooperation that will promote investment, technology transfer, and the development of new competencies in Latvia. Cooperation with Ukrainian industry gives us an opportunity not only to adopt unique practical experience, but also to create the conditions for developing new export products and strengthening Latvia’s competitiveness,” Economy Minister Viktors Valainis said.
Close cooperation with Ukrainian companies plays an important role in the partnership. In recent years, these companies have accumulated unique experience and expertise in developing unmanned systems and dual-use solutions under real combat conditions.
