The news was published by the Latvian Ministry of Defense on November 5, a few days after the decision was taken.
"On Thursday, October 31, the first meeting of the management group of the international drone coalition in support of Ukraine took place in Rīga, where it was decided to admit Luxembourg into the coalition," said a release from the Ministry.
"I am pleased with the coalition's unanimous support for Luxembourg's admission, thus opening up even wider opportunities for cooperation both in the acquisition of drones and in the development of new innovations," said Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds.
With Luxembourg joining the drone coalition, 17 countries now cooperating via the format to supply Ukraine with much needed drones to aid its defense against Russian aggression.
"The representatives of the member states of the drone coalition admitted that due to the rapid development of drone technology, it is necessary to speed up the deliveries, which would allow Ukraine to defend itself more effectively, as well as to attack the aggressor Russian occupiers," said the release.
Together with Latvia, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Estonia, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Ukraine, Germany and Sweden participate in the drone coalition.
Latvia will allocate approximately 20 million euros for the needs of the drone coalition this year - at least 10 million euros for purchases from the local industry, 5 million euros for purchases within the drone coalition. Also in 2025, Latvia will give 20 million euros to the international drone coalition. while Latvia and Ukraine have concluded an agreement on the training of Ukrainian soldiers in the drone pilot program.
