A letter of intent on participation in the drone coalition was initially signed by Ukraine, the Netherlands, Lithuania, Estonia, Sweden, Denmark, and Germany. The Ministry expects other countries to join the drone coalition – which indeed started to happen within 24 hours.
The drone coalition's ambition is to provide one million drones for Ukraine's needs.
By signing the letter of intent, the countries commit to investing resources in drone production, delivering drones and spare parts to Ukraine, and implementing drone testing, troop training, and other technical solutions.
Latvia will devote at least EUR 10 million to the development of the drone coalition within the framework.
The Ministry of Defense has received information about drones needed by Ukraine and has opened talks with local manufacturers about their ability to supply drones and their components that meet Ukrainian needs.
"The technology of drones has fundamentally changed the strategy and tactics of hostilities. Drone technology also plays a major role in Ukraine's capability arsenal and is effective at conducting intelligence and destroying an adversary. The coalition's tasks are to implement targeted and rapid drone deliveries to Ukraine, as well as develop drone capabilities of Latvia and other allied countries,” Defense Minister Andris Sprūds (Progressives) said in a statement to the media.
One day after the initial announcement, the United Kingdom confirmed it was also on board.
On Thursday, February 15, the United Kingdom joined the drone coalition initiated by Latvia in support of Ukraine. The two countries will jointly lead the drone coalition.
“Along with the existing seven countries that have already joined the drone coalition, the UK will make a significant contribution by supporting Ukraine both with technology and helping to develop skills. The drone coalition has created a strong core of partnership," said Defense Minister Andris Sprūds.
"I am proud that the United Kingdom, together with Latvia, will lead an international drone coalition to jointly strengthen Ukraine's capabilities. We will provide Ukraine with the drone technology it needs to defend itself and win this war," said UK Defense Minister Grant Shapps.
It should also be recalled that Estonia formed an Information Technology (IT) coalition to support Ukraine, and Lithuania formed a mine clearance coalition.
