LAT Defence, a newly established Latvian defence and security company, has launched with €2 million in initial funding. The company aims to strengthen security and defence capabilities across Latvia and the Baltic region by developing unmanned systems, training operators, and protecting critical infrastructure.
LAT Defence combines the expertise of several Latvian companies in security, defence technologies, drone development and operator training with the practical experience of a Ukrainian engineering team in the development, production and deployment of unmanned systems under real combat conditions. Rather than bringing ready-made solutions, the Ukrainian team contributes the ability to develop them in rapidly changing environments – a methodology refined in situations where decisions must be made and technologies adapted daily.
According to Valdemārs Eklons, Head of Partnerships and Development at LAT Defence: “Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has fundamentally changed the security landscape in Europe. In modern conflicts, drones have become one of the most important elements of defence. However, success is determined not by technology alone, but by the people capable of creating, improving and deploying it in real time. LAT Defence aims to develop these capabilities in Latvia while providing direct access to combat-proven knowledge and experience gained in Ukraine.”
LAT Defence focuses on three core areas: the development and production of unmanned systems, operator training, and strengthening critical infrastructure security. The company will develop drone technologies created in Latvia, implement projects both domestically and internationally, and provide training programmes and practical exercises for representatives of the civil sector, as well as security and defence professionals.
In addition, LAT Defence will support public and private sector organisations in strengthening critical infrastructure security through risk assessments and the development of tailored protection solutions. The company is also developing technologies and methodologies designed to counter threats posed by drones and other unmanned systems.
LAT Defence plans to work closely with public institutions and private sector organisations to support the adoption of unmanned systems and strengthen security capabilities across both civilian and defence sectors.
The company has already secured its first contract for the development and delivery of a product to the Ukrainian defence technology company Ukropchik. At the same time, LAT Defence is continuing discussions with several potential clients across the Baltic States and Europe.
The company’s growth opportunities have also attracted interest from several investors, including Janus Capital Partners AIFP SIA, an alternative investment fund manager, which LAT Defence views as a potential strategic investor.
