03/02/2025
Ticket to the Top League
Latvia is taking a significant step forward in the defense industry – Baltic Photonics, in collaboration with international partners, is investing €120 million in the creation of a new factory.
This initiative will not only strengthen the country's defense capabilities but also create new jobs and promote technological development in the Baltic region.
Latvia is Building a New Military Industry Factory
Latvia is set to become home to the largest optical and photonics military segment manufacturing plant in Europe. Baltic Photonics, in partnership with Germany’s Harder Digital and Greece’s Theon Sensors, plans to invest €120 million to establish a facility in the Berģi industrial zone. The project will ensure the full production cycle of night and thermal vision devices while creating 150–250 new jobs in the local market.
Why Latvia?
The decision to build the factory in Latvia is not accidental. First, the country has strong traditions in optics and photonics. Second, its geographical location on the eastern flank of the European Union provides strategic advantages. The European Union is increasingly focusing on defense industry development, and Latvia has the opportunity to become a leader in this field.
"We need to stop seeing ourselves as mere applicants for funding – Latvia has enormous potential to become a key player in Europe’s defense industry," emphasizes Baltic Photonics co-owner and SAPRA board chairman Edgars Zandmanis.
Innovation and Collaboration
The factory will be equipped with cutting-edge technology, and cooperation with Latvian scientists and universities will be a key part of its development. Active collaboration is already underway with Riga Technical University and University of Latvia to ensure the training of highly qualified specialists.
"We plan to attract and support science students by providing scholarships and internships. Our goal is to create an environment where Latvia’s young professionals can grow and work in their home country rather than moving abroad," explains Zandmanis.
Industry Prospects
Latvia has the potential to become a significant player in the European defense industry by attracting foreign investments and creating strategic advantages. This project will not only boost the local economy but also enhance Latvia’s defense capabilities and cooperation with NATO countries.
If everything goes as planned, the laboratory will begin operations as early as next January, and the factory's construction will be completed within the next few years.