Latvia has delivered 1,500 drones of different types to Ukraine as part of the Drone Coalition, a multinational initiative supporting Ukraine’s defence. The announcement was made by Andris Sprūds, Latvia’s Minister of Defence, who shared images of the shipment on social media. The drones were produced by two Latvian companies, which plan to supply a total of 12,000 drones in the first half of the year. The value of these deliveries is estimated at £14.5 million.
The number of drones transferred to Ukraine is set to grow as manufacturers establish stronger supply chains and expand production capacity. The Drone Coalition, established in February 2024 through a joint effort by Latvia and Ukraine, now includes 18 countries. These nations have pledged to supply Ukraine with reconnaissance drones, FPV drones, and multi-rotor bomber drones to strengthen the Ukrainian Defence Forces. Norway became the 18th country to join the coalition in February 2024, increasing financial contributions and enabling larger orders and faster deliveries.
Since its creation, the Drone Coalition has played a crucial role in supplying Ukrainian forces with essential drone technology. Over the past year, the coalition has contributed more than £1.7 billion towards drone production in Ukraine, boosting domestic manufacturing and ensuring a steady supply of unmanned aerial systems to the front lines. A key initiative within the coalition saw £17 million allocated to purchase reconnaissance drones, meeting a vital need for intelligence gathering in frontline operations.
A joint fund established by coalition members has accumulated £150 million, allowing for large-scale tenders to develop innovative drone solutions. These tenders aim to create an asymmetric advantage over Russian forces, helping Ukraine maintain an edge in the ongoing war. Ukrainian drone manufacturers have become the second-largest group in terms of applications submitted in the latest round of coalition tenders, initiated by the United Kingdom.
This highlights the growing role of Ukrainian defence companies in the global drone industry.
The Drone Coalition continues to be a major force in Ukraine’s defence, demonstrating international unity in countering Russian aggression. With expanded production capabilities and ongoing financial commitments from coalition members, the number of drones supplied to Ukrainian forces is expected to increase in the coming months, further strengthening Ukraine’s ability to defend itself.
