Latvia Awards R&D Contract to Origin Robotics for Counter-Drone Technology

Riga, Latvia (March 2025) – Latvian defence tech startup Origin Robotics has been awarded a research and development (R&D) contract by the Latvian Ministry of Defence to develop a high-speed interceptor drone as part of the country’s investment in counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS). Alongside other companies selected for electronic warfare and guided missile development, these new contracts reflect Latvia’s initiative to strengthen national defence capabilities against evolving aerial threats and build a multi-layered defence system by expanding public-private partnerships.

Drones have become a defining feature of modern warfare, offering a low-cost yet highly effective tool for reconnaissance and attack missions. Countering these threats, however, remains an expensive challenge that reflects the realities of asymmetric warfare. Under the agreement, Origin Robotics will develop a high-speed interceptor drone designed as an autonomous and cost-effective solution for countering fast-moving airborne threats in real time. It is a rapidly deployable interceptor built to defeat loitering munitions and hostile UAVs with precision and speed.

The project will be implemented by the co-financing principle, jointly funded by the Latvian Ministry of Defence and Origin Robotics. The average investment proportion in such projects is expected to follow a 65/35 ratio, with approximately 65% invested by the defence sector and 35% by industry partners. The funding model reflects the growing role of public-private partnerships in advancing Europe’s defence capabilities. As military threats evolve more rapidly than traditional defence procurement cycles can keep up with, this co-financing model ensures a more agile approach. It accelerates development, aligns incentives, and drives innovation to deliver European defence forces faster  and more cost-effective solutions.

Agris Kipurs, CEO and co-founder of Origin Robotics, said: “As unmanned 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 has already demonstrated its expertise in autonomous aerial combat systems with its flagship drone, BEAK, which is currently deployed by both the Ukrainian and Armed Forces of two NATO countries in Europe. The company continues to focus on developing next-generation defence technologies that address evolving battlefield threats and support Europe’s security efforts.