Joint Research, Drone Production, and Patria APCs: Ukraine and Latvia Expand Defense Cooperation
Ukraine and Latvia are deepening their defense-industrial and military cooperation by signing a Memorandum and receiving a new batch of armored personnel carriers (APCs) to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities.
The Gaze reports on it, referring to the Ministry of Defense of Latvia and Ukraine.
During a working visit to Latvia, Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal met with his Latvian counterpart Andris Spruds, where the parties signed a Memorandum on defense-industrial cooperation.
The document envisages joint work on innovation, research, and the exchange of experience in the use of weapons. Particular attention was paid to the production and use of drones, the development of long-range capabilities, and the exchange of knowledge in the field of cybersecurity.
As part of its support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Latvia is transferring Patria 6x6 armored personnel carriers (APCs) to Ukraine. Ministry of Defense of Ukraine will receive 21 units of equipment equipped with 12.7 mm machine guns and ammunition kits, as well as spare parts, repair tools, a mobile repair workshop, and kits for repairing combat damage at the frontline.
The Latvian side emphasizes that it has actively supported Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion, providing both military equipment and training for Ukrainian military personnel.
“The donation of Latvian-made armored personnel carriers is a significant support for the defenders of Ukraine and an opportunity to test the strength and capabilities of Latvian-made armored vehicles on the real battlefield,” emphasized Defense Minister Andris Spruds.
In total, Latvia's military aid to Ukraine this year will reach 0.3% of GDP, and the joint training and industrial cooperation program will contribute to the further strengthening of Ukraine's defense capabilities.
As a reminder, the country is participating in NATO's Renovator initiative, which involves renovating Ukrainian military hospitals and creating modern rehabilitation centers. Latvia will be responsible for renovating one of five such centers, and the project includes the supply of medical equipment so that wounded soldiers can return to service more quickly.
In addition, Latvia has provided Ukraine with a new package of military and humanitarian aid, including FPV drones, a mobile workshop for their repair, off-road vehicles, and other materials for the needs of the front line. The aid was organized through state structures and charitable initiatives, including Ziedot.lv, SOS palīdzība Ukrainas armijai, and Stopify.
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