On May 17, 2025, during Museum Night, the Latvian War Museum at Smilšu Street 20 in Riga unveiled, for the first time, a contemporary defence industry exhibition, organized in cooperation with the Latvian Security and Defence Industry Federation (DAIF). 

 

The Latvian security and defence industry is a vital part of the national defence ecosystem, contributing increasingly to the supply of the National Armed Forces and security institutions, the provision of critical services, the national economy, and international security. The exhibition showcases the most recent achievements of companies, educational institutions, and research organizations across all five NATO force domains. The exhibition opens with the space domain, featuring contributions from the University of Latvia, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, Baltic Satellite Service, and DATI Group, demonstrating that Latvia not only has ambitions but also concrete capabilities in space science and technology. 

 

The cyber domain and communications, which intersect all armed forces domains, are highlighted through the work of the Latvian State Radio and Television Centre, Elektroniskie Sakari, Cyber Circle, daily ensuring secure communication for citizens and organizations, as well as innovative multifunctional thermal imaging systems and the educational initiative “Kiberplēsis.” The exhibition also presents aircraft, drones, and counter-drone systems, reflecting modern warfare realities. Innovations and new technologies are showcased by Peligrin and DATI Group, while drones manufactured in Latvia by Belss, Edge Autonomy, and DK Unity will be on display. 

 

Latvian companies increasingly provide support with individual and collective equipment, from tactical clothing and gear to ammunition, food, and vehicles. The exhibition highlights contributions from Riga Technical University, University of Latvia, Riga Stradins University, and Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, as well as products from Roga-Agro, VR Cars, Patria Latvia, Exonicus, VALPRO, and Brasa Defence Systems. For the first time, the wider public can see tactical electric vehicles for special units and reconnaissance, provided by Global Wolf Motors, and night vision devices from BNV Systems. Finally, the exhibition features marine and underwater innovations from Submerge Baltic, VIC TEC, and Interspiro, including unmanned underwater reconnaissance devices, models of sea drones, and professional diving equipment widely used in global oceans. 

 

The official opening ceremony on May 19, 2025, will be attended by Kristīne Skrīvere, Director of the Latvian War Museum, Elīna Egle, Chairwoman of DAIF Latvia, Aldis Gulbis, Vice-Chair of the Board, and Colonel Raivis Melnis, Deputy Chief of the Land Component of the National Armed Forces Joint Staff. The exhibition will also be open to international partners during the international Drone Summit at the end of May. 

 

This exhibition demonstrates how #powerofpartnership can achieve excellence in production, research, and technology for the defence of Latvia and its allies. The exhibition will be open to visitors of all ages throughout the year. 

 

The project is funded by the DAIF Latvia Cooperation Network and co-financed by the European Union.