Drones Developed in Latvia Will Protect France: Army Chooses the 'Blaze' System | BB.LV
AI Analysis
The French Army has selected the 'Blaze' counter-UAS system, developed by Latvian firm Origin Robotics, following a rigorous evaluation by the DGA. This marks a significant export win for Latvia and expands the 'Blaze' system's user base within NATO to four countries. The agreement includes local production and technology transfer in France, facilitated by DSV.
Key Takeaways
- Origin Robotics' 'Blaze' system was chosen by the French Army to counter drone threats after months of testing.
- The contract was announced at Eurosatory 2026 and involves collaboration with French defense integrator DSV.
- Testing specifically evaluated the system's effectiveness against drones like the Shahed and Lancet, informed by the Ukraine conflict.
- France is the fourth NATO member to adopt 'Blaze', following Latvia, Belgium, and Estonia.
- The agreement includes the establishment of production facilities in France with technology transfer from Origin Robotics.
Why It Matters
This contract demonstrates the growing demand for dedicated counter-UAS technology, particularly systems capable of neutralizing modern drone threats observed in Ukraine. The French decision to pursue local production signals a commitment to building domestic capabilities in this critical defense area and strengthens NATO interoperability. The success of a smaller European firm like Origin Robotics highlights the potential for innovation outside traditional defense industry hubs.
Drones Developed in Latvia Will Protect France: Army Chooses the 'Blaze' System | BB.LV
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Business
Publication date 17.06.2026 14:27
France will become the fourth NATO country to implement the Latvian drone interceptor system 'Blaze'. After months of testing, the French military selected the development by Origin Robotics to combat modern drone threats.
The Latvian defense technology company Origin Robotics has secured one of the most significant international contracts in its history. The French armed forces have selected the autonomous drone interceptor system 'Blaze', developed in Latvia, to counteract drones.
The agreement was announced at the Eurosatory 2026 international defense and security technology exhibition taking place in Paris. The project will be implemented in collaboration with the French defense technology integrator DSV.
The contract is the result of a months-long evaluation organized by the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA). During the trials, the military tested several competing solutions and assessed their ability to protect troops from modern drone threats.
Thus, France has become the fourth NATO country to choose the 'Blaze' system. Previously, these interceptor drones were supplied to Latvia, Belgium, and Estonia.
For the Latvian defense industry, this is one of the most notable export successes in recent years. In fact, it represents recognition of Latvian technology in one of the largest defense markets in Europe.
Co-founder and head of Origin Robotics, Agris Kipurs, noted that the system successfully passed a highly demanding evaluation procedure.
"Blaze successfully underwent a very rigorous evaluation process and met all DGA requirements," he emphasized.
According to Kipurs, interceptor drones are becoming one of the most important elements of modern defense, and France's decision is a strategic investment in national security.
The Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIAA) points out that the experience of the war in Ukraine has significantly influenced the testing program.
During the evaluation, French military personnel and defense sector specialists tested the ability of various systems to counter threats such as Shahed and Lancet drones, which are actively used in modern conflicts.
'Blaze' is a portable rapid deployment system designed for detecting, tracking, and destroying aerial targets. The system has NATO codification and meets alliance compatibility requirements.
According to the signed agreement, the French company DSV will not only supply systems for the French army but will also create production facilities in the country in collaboration with Latvian developers.
The project includes technology transfer and the organization of local assembly, which al