Latvian citizens training with drones amid tensions with Russia

On a Thursday morning in August, approximately 20 executives from Latvia's top companies convened in a former plywood factory in Riga. The businessmen were not there to discuss market opportunities, but to learn about the latest technology redefining modern warfare, specifically drones. The location, now dubbed the Drone House, houses a 2,500-square-metre indoor hall and a 10,000-square-metre outdoor training area where locals are being taught how to fly and operate drones.

One businesswoman, Laura Pica, emphasized the responsibility of Latvians to defend their country. She cited the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, stating that if ordinary citizens did not assist, Ukraine might be occupied. Pica described Russia as "a monkey juggling with grenades," referring to the potential danger posed by the country's proximity. The concern is shared across Latvia, where NATO recently shot down a drone equipped with explosives in eastern Latvia, likely a Ukrainian aircraft diverted by Russian jamming.

Maris Bruza, one of the four founders of the Drone House, stated that Russia is testing both Latvian and NATO limits. This testing could involve a potential operation to seize a portion of Latvian territory to observe how NATO would react. The initiative aims to train 50,000 citizens, including high school students who receive free training. Ukrainian soldiers have even participated in the training, sharing their expertise in intercepting enemy drones.

Daiga Auzina, a 20-year veteran in financial services, expressed the importance of investing in security and defence. She noted that while governments may not be able to address every concern, it is essential for citizens to take responsibility. Auzina became emotional upon seeing Canadian soldiers supporting Latvia, describing their presence as "just so great."

The situation is becoming increasingly complex for Latvia, as it now faces a combination of cyberattacks, armed drones, infrastructure sabotage, and disinformation campaigns. These threats blur the line between war and peace. Latvia's new defence minister, Raivis Melnis, appointed in May during a political crisis, highlighted the country's proactive approach to the conflict.

Latvia reinstated conscription and added a mandatory national defence education course to school curriculums in 2024, which includes drone pilot training. In Murjani, about 50 kilometers from Riga, volunteers aged 16 to 20 are preparing for a drone-piloting competition using drones they assembled themselves. This competition marks the culmination of a two-week camp attended by members of the "Jaunsardzes," the youth national guard.