The Defence Industry Advisory Council convened at the Ministry of Defence to discuss the use of the SAFE instrument, planned activities within the defence industry, and the latest developments in the sector.
During the meeting, Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds informed participants that Latvia has submitted an application for funding under the newly established European Security Action Fund (SAFE). The proposal outlines capability areas to be developed through SAFE support, thereby strengthening the combat readiness of the National Armed Forces and contributing to the implementation of NATO capability targets.
The Minister noted that the European Commission has provisionally identified €5.68 billion in SAFE funding available to Latvia, which is expected to be primarily directed towards enhancing national defence and security, particularly the improvement of combat capabilities. He emphasised that it is essential to maintain the position that SAFE funding should primarily address the needs of the defence sector.
The meeting also discussed planned amendments to the Law on the Circulation of Goods of Strategic Importance and the licensing procedure for special permits, aimed at streamlining the Ministry of Defence’s licensing process, reducing administrative burdens, and shortening approval times. New regulations will also soon be adopted to enable the conclusion of strategic partnership agreements with companies, with the respective framework to be submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers for approval.
Participants were introduced to upcoming events, including the Latvia-Denmark and Latvia-Germany Industry Days, as well as the forthcoming NATO Science and Technology Organization’s Applied Vehicle Technology Panel. These events are intended to strengthen industrial capacity, promote innovation, and deepen understanding of scientific cooperation within the defence ecosystem.
The Defence Industry Advisory Council was established earlier this year. Its main purpose is to present current developments in the defence sector, provide recommendations and proposals, support industry initiatives, and coordinate the implementation of the national defence industry strategy.
The Council brings together representatives from the Ministry of Defence, the Latvian Security and Defence Industries Federation, the Latvian Confederation of Industrial Development, the Employers’ Confederation of Latvia, the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Military Technology, Drone and Robotics Association, the International Association of Defence Product Manufacturers (SAPRA), and the Financial Industry Association. Representatives from other institutions may be invited as needed.