Yesterday the Dutch mission around the Drone Summit 2025 started in Riga, Latvia. With 41 companies and over 60 participants, this is one of the largest Dutch trade missions around drone technology.
Under the leadership of Oost NL and in cooperation with the Ministry of Defense, BOM, LIOF, InnovationQuarter, NOM, Horizon Flevoland and the NIDV, entrepreneurs and organizations are taking part in a three-day program focused on cooperation, innovation and international positioning.
Entrepreneurs build safety and technology
The participating companies represent a wide range of technological expertise: from sensor technology to AI solutions and from drone platforms to training capacity and production. What binds them is the shared ambition to use their knowledge, technology and network for a safer Europe and a strong international position of the Netherlands.
Company visits and ecosystem exploration
On May 27, participants will explore the Latvian drone ecosystem, including through a content program at Riga Technical University (RTU). The emphasis is on establishing sustainable connections with Latvian parties, industry and representatives of the Drone Coalition for Ukraine. Company visits are also planned.
Drone Summit: international cooperation around safety and innovation
On May 28, the Drone Summit 2025 will take place. This summit marks the one-year anniversary of the Drone Coalition for Ukraine, a collaboration of 18 countries, including the Netherlands. The coalition is committed to the development and deployment of drone technology in support of Ukraine. The summit will bring together political leaders, defense experts, scientists and industry to discuss the role of drone technology and the future of European security, innovation and resilience. Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans will also attend on behalf of the Netherlands.
Moving forward together
With this mission, the Netherlands shows that entrepreneurs are actively contributing to a safer, smarter and resilient Europe. Dutch entrepreneurs are ready to connect their technological power to societal impact.