Latvia is making significant strides in developing its defense sector, aiming to become a key player in Europe’s military industry. At the launch event of the International Defense Production Association (SAPRA), board member Edgars Zandmanis outlined the association's ambitious goals and strategic plans to establish a high-tech military industry center in Latvia.
Towards a Unified EU Defense Budget
"In the European Union, there is increasing discussion about the necessity of forming a unified defense budget. Many countries have already significantly increased their national defense spending. In this context, the importance of photonics and optics is growing, as these sectors form the foundation for producing strategically vital military products," emphasized Edgars Zandmanis, SAPRA board member.
Establishing a High-Tech Center in Latvia
SAPRA's mission is to establish a military production and research hub in Latvia focused on advanced technologies. This initiative aims to strengthen Latvia’s position as one of Europe’s leading defense product manufacturers.
Currently, SAPRA includes several internationally recognized companies:
- Baltic Photonics (Latvia-Germany) – a producer of optical instruments;
- Harder Digital (Germany) – a company specializing in nanostructures and optical fibers;
- Theon Sensors (Greece) – a developer of optical systems;
- RP Optical Lab (Israel) – a manufacturer of optical devices;
- Troya (Italy) – a leader in aviation optical systems.
SAPRA is also in discussions with potential partners from Poland, Sweden, Bulgaria, the USA, and Denmark, reflecting broad interest in the association's activities.
Investing in Infrastructure and Talent
One of SAPRA’s success stories is Baltic Photonics. Over the past year, the company has established laboratory facilities covering 540 square meters, investing 3 million euros. In the next two years, a new 6,000-square-meter plant will be built in Berģi, becoming the largest optical and photonics equipment manufacturing facility in Europe.
The new plant is expected to create 150–200 new jobs, with total investments reaching 120 million euros, including 11 million euros allocated to research. The facility will be capable of fully meeting NATO's needs in the Nordic and Baltic regions.
Collaboration with Universities
To attract new talent and foster collaboration between education and industry, Baltic Photonics has already signed a partnership agreement with Riga Technical University and is negotiating with the University of Latvia. These initiatives will provide Latvian students with opportunities to join the high-tech photonics industry.
Latvia’s Future in the Military Industry Sector
The establishment of SAPRA and the implementation of large-scale projects, such as the creation of Europe’s largest photonics facility, position Latvia as one of the leaders in the European military industry. Combining advanced technologies, scientific research, and international cooperation makes this goal achievable.
These initiatives will not only strengthen Europe's defense capabilities but also drive Latvia’s economic growth and secure the country a strategically significant role in the global military industry market.