Riga – Latvia is bolstering its defenses and seeking European Union funding for critical drone and border security projects, reflecting a growing concern over regional stability. On Monday, March 16th, the Latvian Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with allied nations, submitted two initial project applications to the European Commission under the European Defence of Common Interests (EDPCI) program. These applications focus on strengthening the eastern border and developing advanced drone capabilities, signaling a proactive approach to security challenges in the region.
The two projects – the Eastern Border Strengthening Project and the Drone and Counter-Drone Capabilities Project – are designed to align with both Latvian and EU priorities, according to the Ministry of Defence. This move comes as European nations increasingly focus on enhancing their collective defense capabilities and addressing emerging threats. The applications represent the first phase of a multi-stage process, with a detailed submission round scheduled for May, after which the European Commission will evaluate the proposals and the Council of the European Union will make final funding decisions.
Strengthening the Eastern Flank
The Eastern Flank Watch project, a key component of the broader effort, aims to fortify Latvia’s eastern border. This initiative is being jointly led by Finland and Poland, with additional cooperation from Lithuania, Estonia, and Sweden. The collaborative approach underscores the importance of a unified European response to potential security risks along the eastern border, a region of heightened geopolitical sensitivity. The project’s focus is on enhancing surveillance, improving response times, and bolstering overall border security infrastructure.
Drone at Sēlija testing ground
Photo: Latvian Defence Ministry/M.EGLITIS
Alongside border reinforcement, Latvia is investing heavily in drone technology. The Drone and Counter-Drone Capabilities Project, undertaken with the Netherlands, Croatia, and Spain, seeks to procure both drone and counter-drone systems. This project also aims to establish a network of drone technology and testing centers, fostering innovation and expertise in this rapidly evolving field. A dedicated event is planned in Latvia on March 25th and 26th to further develop the project and showcase Latvian capabilities to allied nations.
Innovation at the Sēlija Range
These initiatives build upon recent advancements in unmanned systems testing. From March 9th to 13th, the newly established “Sēlija” military range hosted the first NATO Innovation Range testing and evaluation days. The event brought together defense industry companies from NATO countries and Ukraine, alongside military experts, to assess the capabilities of unmanned systems and interceptor technologies. According to Latvian Defence Minister Andris Sprūds, “The Sēlija training ground is not only a training environment for Latvian and allied armed forces units, but also a unique ecosystem where the latest technologies and innovations meet with the military environment.”
Drones being tested at Sēlijs military range in Latvia
Photo: Latvian Defence Ministry/M.EGLITIS
During the testing days, companies demonstrated their technologies in realistic conditions, receiving feedback from NATO defense experts. The Sēlija range, with its open environment suitable for high-speed and high-altitude flights, provides an ideal setting for such evaluations. The Autonomous Systems Competence Center, responsible for air, land, and sea drones, organized the event, highlighting Latvia’s commitment to fostering innovation in unmanned systems.
Looking Ahead: The International Drone Summit
The momentum generated at the Sēlija range will continue with the upcoming international Drone Summit, scheduled for May 27th in Riga. This event will serve as a platform to showcase further advancements in drone technology and strengthen collaboration among international partners. The European Defence Projects of Common Interest (EDPI) programme, under which these initiatives fall, aims to promote cooperation in the joint procurement and production of essential defense systems, and components.
Latvia’s proactive approach to defense modernization is further supported by significant EU funding. According to a January 28th announcement, Latvia is poised to receive up to €524 million in 2026, with a total of €3.49 billion allocated by 2030 through the Security Action Fund for Europe (SAFE) as reported by the Latvian Ministry of Defence. These funds will be used to strengthen the combat capabilities of the National Armed Forces, develop the defense industry, and enhance regional security, including support for Ukraine between 2026 and 2028.
The next step in the process will be the detailed project applications due in May, after which the European Commission will evaluate the proposals. The Council of the European Union will then make the final decision on funding allocation, marking a crucial moment for Latvia’s defense modernization efforts.
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