Ministry of Defence and Universities Strengthen Joint Research and Innovation
On Wednesday, November 12, a ceremonial signing of cooperation agreements took place at the Ministry of Defence with four scientific universities – the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, the University of Latvia, Riga Technical University, and Riga Stradins University.
The signing of these agreements marks an important step toward closer cooperation between the national defence sector and Latvia’s academic community, reinforcing a shared commitment to promote the development of science, research, and innovation in the interest of national security.
This year, between January and May, Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds has met with representatives of university leadership to review the results of previous cooperation and highlight key directions for future partnership. The agreements establish a general framework for collaboration and clearly define priority areas – developing research for national defence needs, promoting innovation and technology transfer, and involving universities in NATO and European Union research and innovation programmes.
The signed agreements do not involve direct financial commitments but establish a clear framework for continued cooperation. They aim to strengthen research within the defence sector, enhance the practical use of research infrastructure, and align academic work with the development needs of the National Armed Forces. This partnership provides a solid foundation for a sustainable, innovation-driven model of collaboration between the defence industry and the scientific community.
"A strong national defence means not only the development of military capabilities but also close cooperation with the science and research sector. Latvian universities are key partners in generating knowledge, technologies, and innovations that strengthen our national security. Through this, we are reinforcing mutual trust and long-term collaboration to jointly build a modern, science-based defence sector," stated Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds.
The Ministry of Defence has stated that it values its ongoing cooperation with universities and anticipates the successful implementation of future initiatives aimed at enhancing national defence and fostering the development of Latvia’s defence industry and research.
