Minister Sprūds Reviews Anti-Drone Prototype
On January 14, 2026, Latvian Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds visited SAF Tehnika to inspect a prototype of a radio signal jamming system. This advanced electronic warfare device is specifically designed to neutralize unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by disrupting their radio communications and global navigation satellite system (GPS) signals. The visit underscores Latvia's commitment to strengthening its national defense capabilities against evolving aerial threats.
Strategic Investment in Counter-Drone Technology
The development of this jamming system is a key component of a larger strategic initiative by the Latvian Ministry of Defence. In March 2025, the Ministry signed three research and development (R&D) contracts with Latvian companies Origin Robotics, SAF Tehnika, and Frankenburg Technologies. These contracts, which could see a total investment reaching up to €10 million, aim to foster the creation of robust counter-drone solutions. Minister Sprūds emphasized that these agreements are crucial for enhancing Latvia's short-range air defense against drones and for developing European counter-drone solutions to reduce reliance on external suppliers.
Multi-faceted Approach to UAV Defense
Latvia's comprehensive approach to counter-UAV operations includes several technological avenues:
- Electronic Warfare Systems: Such as the radio signal jamming prototype developed by SAF Tehnika, which aims to disrupt drone control and navigation.
- Automated Drone Interceptors: Projects focused on developing drones capable of intercepting and neutralizing hostile UAVs.
- Guided Missile Systems: Development of specialized missiles for counter-drone operations.
The projects are structured with flexibility, allowing for adjustments based on technological advancements and insights gained from conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. A co-financing model is in place, with the Ministry of Defence typically contributing 65% of the investment and industry partners providing the remaining 35%.
Support from Autonomous Systems Competence Center
Further bolstering these efforts, Latvia inaugurated the Autonomous Systems Competence Center (also known as the Drone Competence Center) on September 3, 2025. This center serves as a national platform to support the development, testing, and integration of drone technologies within the Latvian National Armed Forces, encompassing air, land, and sea drones, as well as various counter-drone solutions. The Ministry of Defence has stated that the first solutions from these R&D projects are expected to be ready by the end of 2025, with active field testing commencing in September 2025.
5 Comments
BuggaBoom
Reducing reliance on external suppliers is key. Bravo, Latvia!
Eugene Alta
Establishing the Autonomous Systems Competence Center is an excellent initiative to foster innovation and expertise in Latvia's defense sector. However, the timeline of expecting solutions by end of 2025 and field testing from September 2025 seems incredibly ambitious, potentially compromising thorough testing or leading to delays.
Noir Black
Why aren't we focusing on conventional air defense? Drones aren't the only problem.
Michelangelo
Strengthening short-range air defense against drones is crucial given the geopolitical landscape and Russia's influence in the region. But, there's a need for transparency on how these jamming systems will avoid interfering with legitimate civilian communications or GPS signals, ensuring they don't create unintended consequences.
Raphael
€10 million for prototypes? Sounds like a massive waste of taxpayer money.