Latvian entrepreneurs are capable of offering innovative solutions for defense needs, as confirmed by the manufacturing enterprises in Liepāja, public media reports.
In order to produce not only components but also a final product with high added value in the city, the management of the Liepāja Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is considering the potential for developing military production in the new industrial park on the territory of the former 'Liepājas metalurgs' plant.
Local companies are also continuing to strengthen their positions in the military industry, as confirmed by the recent Latvian Export Forum on dual-use products held in Liepāja. The company 'UPB Nams' is also involved in implementing projects in the military sector - one of the largest industrial groups in the Baltics, offering design and construction services.
"One of the companies in the 'RK Machinery' group is actively developing various solutions for the production of metal elements using robotics," said Marika Rutka, a representative of 'UPB Nams'.
She noted the significant potential of the current situation that entrepreneurs should leverage. "Given the current circumstances - both global and national, as well as in the European context - we see ourselves as an important player, not just to continue on the chosen path, but to jointly develop and strengthen our defense concept," emphasized Rutka.
The manager of the Liepāja SEZ, Uldis Khmieleviskis, noted that both the SEZ administration and entrepreneurs are actively monitoring the development of sectors where growth is observed, and currently, one of them is the military industry.
"We see that in this area, for obvious reasons, growth is expected. The companies in Liepāja have increased their capacities over the years - both technical and professional. I would say that today, Liepāja enterprises can produce everything necessary for the military sector. It just wasn't the main focus before," said Khmieleviskis.
"Take the 'Patria' armored vehicle, for example - operations to prepare the chassis for further work were carried out at several metalworking enterprises in Liepāja. In turn, the company 'Interspiro' produces breathing equipment for divers, including for military needs," added the SEZ manager.
