Latvia has started delivering a new batch of 500 combat drones to Ukraine as part of an international drone coalition to support Kyiv.

The initiative is part of a larger plan involving two Latvian companies to produce 12,000 drones worth 17 million euros ($17.7 million) in the coming months.

In 2024, the drone coalition — including 17 nations and led by Latvia and the UK — provided 1.8 billion euros ($1.9 billion) to enhance Ukraine’s military capabilities.

Latvia contributed 20 million euros ($21.1 million) to this effort in 2024 and plans to allocate the same amount this year.

Additionally, Riga delivered nearly 5,000 drones to Kyiv last year.

‘A Drone Superpower’

Riga’s involvement in the international drone coalition for Ukraine has contributed to advancements in drone manufacturing, supporting Latvian national defense and fostering the growth of the local defense industry.

In addition, local companies are gaining opportunities to participate in international tenders and expand their presence in the global market.

“Latvia is on the way to becoming a drone superpower – by helping Ukraine, we strengthen our industry and defense capabilities,” stated Latvia’s Defense Minister Andris Sprūds.

In May last year, the Latvian government allocated 20 million euros ($21.8 million) to build a “drone army” for its armed forces.

The initiative focuses on modernizing Latvian military capabilities and fostering partnerships with local drone manufacturers.

Under the plan, half of the funding was designated for purchasing drones from national companies, while the rest supported the creation of a mobile training and testing ground in Selia, in the country’s south.