Latvia approves significant financing for the Ukrainian drone technology sector
In early 2024, the international Drone Coalition was founded by Latvia, the United Kingdom, and 16 other member states. The coalition, now comprising 20 nations including Latvia, the UK, Australia, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Estonia, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Turkey, Ukraine, Germany, and Sweden, has a common goal: to support Ukraine's victory.
The coalition's primary objective is to provide Ukraine with combat drones of various capacities, tailored to the needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. To achieve this, a common fund managed by the UK was established, allowing member states to pool contributions for joint procurement of drones.
Since its establishment, the coalition has contracted for the delivery of approximately 30,000 drones, valued at nearly 54 million euros. Latvia has played a significant role in this effort, committing to supply about 12,000 drones worth 17 million euros. As of mid-2025, Latvia has already delivered batches of these drones, including a recent shipment of 1,300 drones in July 2025.
The coalition aims to ensure the continuous supply of support to Ukraine against Russian aggression. This commitment is reflected in their strategy of regular joint procurement, which guarantees the steady supply of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to Ukraine, ensuring continuity and efficiency.
Latvia's support for Ukraine is not symbolic but provides real support to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities. Defense Minister Andris Spruds stated, "Our support for Ukraine is not just about words; it's about providing tangible aid to help Ukraine defend its sovereignty."
The Drone Coalition is not just about drones. It also includes technological support and personnel training. The coalition's efforts extend beyond 2025, with Latvia's military support to Ukraine expected to mainly consist of new procurements from Latvian industry, investment in international drone and other coalitions, military training of Ukrainian soldiers, and dual-purpose support from other ministries.
[1] BBC News, "Latvia and UK lead coalition to supply Ukraine with drones," (2024). [2] The Guardian, "Latvia and UK form drone coalition to support Ukraine," (2024). [3] Reuters, "Latvia delivers 1,300 drones to Ukraine as part of international coalition," (2025). [4] Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, "International Drone Coalition," (2025). [5] Latvian Ministry of Defense, "Latvia's military support to Ukraine in 2025," (2025).
The Drone Coalition, consisting of European and non-European nations such as Latvia, the UK, and others, is working towards ensuring the continuous supply of support to Ukraine, including the provision of combat drones. This technological support extends beyond mere drone deliveries, with Latvia planning to provide military training for Ukrainian soldiers as part of their ongoing efforts.
