The Latvian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded Origin Robotics a research and development (R&D) contract for a high-speed interceptor drone to bolster defence against aerial threats.
This is a part of the MoD’s aim to enhance its counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS) and establish a multi-layered defence system through strengthened public-private partnerships.
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Origin Robotics will engineer an autonomous interceptor drone, offering a swift and cost-effective response to rapidly moving airborne dangers.
The interceptor will be designed for immediate deployment and is capable of neutralising loitering munitions and hostile uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) with precision.
The project’s funding will be shared, adhering to a co-financing principle, with the Latvian MoD contributing approximately 65% and Origin Robotics covering the remaining 35%.
The company notes that the urgency to counteract evolving military threats has outpaced traditional defence procurement processes, necessitating a more agile approach that this co-financing model provides.
Origin Robotics CEO and co-founder Agris Kipurs said: “As uncrewed aerial vehicles reshape modern warfare, effective countermeasures are critical. This contract reflects the Ministry’s confidence in our expertise in autonomous combat aerial systems and validates the capabilities we’ve demonstrated with our deployed solutions.
“The Latvian MoD has entrusted us with developing a crucial C-UAS capability, and we appreciate the opportunity to take on this challenge and contribute to strengthening Latvia’s defence.”
Origin Robotics’ flagship drone, BEAK, is already in service with the Ukrainian and two Nato member states’ armed forces in Europe.
Furthermore, the Latvian Cabinet of Ministers, in a confidential meeting on 4 March, detailing the procurement activities conducted for the Ukrainian Armed Forces through the Drone Coalition in 2024 and outlined objectives for 2025.
The report detailed the support extended to Ukraine by the Drone Coalition last year and suggested measures to enhance Ukraine’s drone capabilities in the following year.
The national budget, managed by the MoD, has approved acquisitions under the Drone Coalition, setting aside up to €20m ($21.64m) for 2025.
Additionally, strategic investments amounting to €10m have been pledged to the Ukrainian drone industry to foster bilateral defence industry cooperation and joint project execution.
In 2024, Latvia supplied nearly 5,000 drones to Ukraine.
These initiatives follow Latvia’s earlier defence contract with General Dynamics European Land Systems for 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles, including logistic support, awarded in January 2025
