On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, Latvian company Origin Robotics, which specializes in advanced autonomous systems, announced that it had signed a multiyear framework agreement with the Latvian Armed Forces for the systematic delivery of BLAZE autonomous interceptor drones. The first implementing contract under the agreement, financed from the EU SAFE (Security Action for Europe) instrument, was approved by the Latvian Cabinet of Ministers on April 21, 2026. The value of the contract and the number of systems to be delivered were not disclosed.
Photos: Origin Robotics
Across Europe and beyond, the proliferation of low-cost drones and loitering munitions, accelerated by the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, has exposed critical gaps in air defense, driving urgent demand for fast and cost-effective interception solutions. The framework agreement establishes a reusable procurement mechanism that extends beyond Latvia’s own supply needs. Under a government-to-government cooperation model, other European countries can join the existing agreement directly instead of launching their own procurement processes from scratch. This allows allied nations to move faster and access Origin’s autonomous interceptor drone systems through a streamlined process. Contracts signed under the framework are also eligible for SAFE funding, removing an additional barrier for EU member states seeking to strengthen their counter-UAS capabilities.
Agris Kipurs, CEO and co-founder of Origin Robotics, said:
“What makes this agreement truly significant is its structure. It gives Latvia the security of procuring BLAZE capability for multiple years ahead, with no new lead times and no procurement gaps. Both sides can renegotiate the technical specification each year. That means Latvia will always be receiving the latest version of BLAZE. And because the framework is open to other nations, allies can join without starting their procurement from zero. This is a fundamentally different approach to defense procurement, and we believe it is the right model for a technology that evolves as fast as autonomous aerial systems.”
Traditional defense contracts lock in a technical specification at the time of signing. For autonomous systems, where AI capabilities, computer-vision accuracy, and sensor integration are constantly improving, this means that armed forces may receive outdated technology before deliveries are completed. The framework agreement addresses this directly: technical specifications can be renegotiated once a year, ensuring that each delivery reflects the current state of development of the BLAZE platform. Buyers secure lead times and supply continuity for years ahead, while retaining access to the latest product version as the technology evolves.
BLAZE is designed, developed, and manufactured entirely in Latvia, qualifying it as a European-origin system under the criteria of the EU SAFE instrument. The use of SAFE funding reflects the system’s compliance with European defense-industrial requirements and the growing urgency of counter-UAS capabilities on NATO’s eastern flank, where unauthorized drone activity near military sites and critical infrastructure has accelerated demand for autonomous interception solutions.
Latvia was the first European country to order and take delivery of BLAZE, followed by Estonia and Belgium. Together, the three countries are the first on the continent to field a fully autonomous, warhead-equipped drone interceptor. Several additional allied countries are procuring BLAZE, with further announcements expected in due course.
BLAZE
According to the manufacturer, the BLAZE interceptor drone provides autonomous target acquisition and interception, combining radar-based detection with AI-powered computer vision.
Radar-guided navigation enables a precise approach to the target. The EO/IR sensor suite and AI-enabled recognition provide real-time identification and target lock-on. Operator-confirmed engagement triggers an optimized attack vector for high-probability interception.
BLAZE provides controlled and secure operation through built-in safety protocols and operator override capabilities. A three-level safety system ensures controlled arming of the drone and prevents unintended detonation. The Wave-Off function allows the mission to be aborted until final approach, while the self-destruct protocol is triggered if the designated operating zone is breached, communication is lost, or a critical failure occurs.
BLAZE is man-portable and mission-ready within minutes, designed for rapid deployment in dynamic conditions. The transport case also serves as a launch station and docking station. The drone is configured without tools and is flight-ready in less than 10 minutes after deployment. The first drone becomes airborne in less than five minutes, with subsequent launches possible in less than one minute.
Video: Origin Robotics
Based on press release
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