The Latvian-initiated drone coalition is starting to form the first packages for shipment to Ukraine, Defense Minister Andris Spruds (Progressives) told TV3 this morning.
There are two facets to the drone coalition’s work and decision-making – international and national. Internationally, ten countries have already joined the coalition, with Australia considering joining.
“It is important that countries with a developed base join the readiness to support Ukraine,” the politician stressed.
He revealed that the coalition members have already started to put together the first joint packages to send to Ukraine. Assessing the speed of the process, Spruds emphasized that it takes time, as actions go through national procurement and plans. In Latvia, there have already been talks with business representatives, and meetings with potential drone manufacturers and shippers.
“We are already putting together the first package with the support of the state,” the Minister said, adding that the Ministry of Defense is very grateful to the organisation Entrepreneurs for Peace, which will immediately send the first package to Ukraine.
The drone coalition’s ambitious plan is to reach one million specific drones shipped to Ukraine next year. But, as Spruds admitted, the number is not an end in itself, as the most important thing is to provide Ukraine what it needs.
As reported, on February 14, along with Latvia, a letter of intent to join the drone coalition was signed by Ukraine, the Netherlands, Lithuania, Estonia, Sweden, Denmark and Germany. The UK joined the coalition on February 15, and Canada in March.
Latvia will contribute at least EUR 10 million within a year for the development of the drone coalition. The Defense Ministry has received information on the drones needed by Ukraine and has started negotiations with local manufacturers on their capacity to supply drones and their parts for Ukraine’s needs.
The ambition of the drone coalition is to provide one million drones for Ukraine. By signing the letter of intent, the countries commit to investing in drone production to supply drones and their spare parts to Ukraine, testing drones, training troops and implementing other technical solutions.
Source: BNS
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