German arms manufacturer Dynamit Nobel Defence is set to establish a €50 million ($59 million) production facility for anti-tank mines in Latvia, as announced by the Latvian Defence Ministry on Thursday. The company, alongside the Latvian State Defence Corporation, formalized the collaboration by signing a letter of intent in Riga, with Latvian Defence Minister Andris Sprūds in attendance.
The new plant is expected to commence operations in 2028 and will primarily focus on producing mines for the Latvian army. This initiative aligns with Latvia’s efforts to bolster its defense capabilities in response to the perceived threats stemming from Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. The situation has heightened security concerns not only in Latvia but also throughout the Baltic states, including Estonia and Lithuania, which are working to reinforce their eastern borders against potential aggressions.
In addition to producing mines, the facility is part of a broader strategy to be prepared for emergency situations where mines may need to be deployed quickly. This recent announcement builds on Latvia’s prior procurement of a remotely controlled mine-laying system from the German defense contractor last October, underscoring the country’s commitment to strengthening its defense strategies in the face of evolving security challenges.
Latvia’s proactive measures reflect a growing recognition of the need for heightened military readiness in the region, showcasing a united front among Baltic nations to safeguard their sovereignty and deter potential threats.