Latvia Strengthens Its Role in NATO Innovation with Unmanned Systems Testing in Selonia

From 9 to 13 March, the Selonia military training range hosted the first NATO Innovation Range testing and evaluation days for unmanned systems and counter-UAS solutions. The event brought together defence industry companies from NATO member states and Ukraine, as well as military experts and representatives of public institutions.

“The Selonia training range is not only a training environment for Latvian and allied armed forces, but also a unique ecosystem where cutting-edge technologies meet operational military needs. The development of drones and interceptor systems is no longer a vision of the future — it is a critical necessity today. By conducting such field tests, we identify the most effective technological solutions while gaining invaluable experience for the future,” said Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds.

Testing in Real Operational Conditions

During the testing days, companies demonstrated and evaluated their technologies in real-world conditions in cooperation with experts from the Autonomous Systems Competence Centre and NATO member states. NATO defence specialists provided direct feedback on the readiness of these solutions for operational deployment.

This was the first NATO Innovation Range event scheduled for 2026. The next testing activities will take place in May, alongside the upcoming international Drone Summit, which will be held on 27 May in Riga.

Accelerating Defence Innovation

NATO Innovation Range testing days provide a platform for defence technology companies to validate their solutions in practice and present them to military experts and decision-makers from across the Alliance.

As the use of unmanned aerial systems in military operations continues to grow globally, interceptor and counter-drone systems are becoming a critical component of modern air defence and force protection. Testing campaigns such as this help accelerate the development of innovative solutions and their transition into operational use.

Selonia as a Strategic Testing Environment

The Selonia military training range offers a suitable environment for advanced testing, including high-speed and high-altitude interceptor flights, as well as open-field testing of electronic warfare solutions.

The testing and evaluation days were organised by the Autonomous Systems Competence Centre, which is responsible for the development of air, land, and maritime drone technologies, as well as counter-drone solutions.

The Centre operates under the State Defence Logistics and Procurement Centre, combining innovation, research, and procurement expertise to bridge operational military needs with the development and deployment of new technologies.

Source: Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Latvia
Department of Military Public Relations