Latvia bought anti-drone systems but 'forgot' the ammunition, PM says

Prime Minister Rihards Kulbergs has revealed that some of Latvia's purchased anti-drone systems were not equipped with the necessary ammunition. He made the comment while discussing recent drone incidents and the tenure of former Defence Minister Andris Sprūds.

Asked whether the issue involved systems acquired during Sprūds' time in office, Kulbergs avoided a direct answer but confirmed that such a situation had indeed occurred. He did not name the specific procurement, system, or institution responsible for failing to purchase the ammunition.

The prime minister said he could not disclose full details about the drone incidents and the country's defence capabilities at this time, as the matter is still being addressed. He also noted that while Latvia describes itself as a drone technology powerhouse, the actual substance behind that claim is lacking.

Unified monitoring system in the works

According to Kulbergs, a unified system is currently being developed to synchronize the actions of the State Border Guard and the Ministry of Defence in monitoring airspace. The system's development is drawing on Ukraine's experience, with the goal of countering drone threats using anti-drone measures rather than costly missiles.

Andris Sprūds served as defence minister from September 2023 to May 2026. In the interview, Kulbergs did not say whether the situation involving the systems and ammunition procurement was directly linked to decisions made by Sprūds.