Dutch drone companies strengthen European cooperation during Drone Summit 2025 in Riga
During a trade mission to Latvia, organised around the Drone Summit 2025 in Riga, Dutch drone companies took concrete steps towards cooperation with European defence and technology partners. With more than 40 companies (60 participants) and the presence of Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans, it was one of the largest Dutch trade missions in the field of drone technology to date.
Dutch companies presented their innovative solutions in the field of drone technology, AI, sensors and systems for defence and security. From autonomous flying drones to smart detection systems, entrepreneurs demonstrated how technological innovation contributes to operational deployability, security and resilience in Europe.
Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans: "With our knowledge and innovation, the Netherlands can be a leader in the drone sector. This will lead to more jobs and more innovation. We really need our entrepreneurs to strengthen our own armed forces and to continue supporting Ukraine. It was great to see so many Dutch companies present in Riga."
Dutch companies connect with European partners
The Drone Summit 2025 marked the first anniversary of the Drone Coalition for Ukraine, a collaboration between 18 countries committed to safety and innovation with drone technology. The summit brought together political leaders, defence experts, scientists and companies from across Europe. For Dutch entrepreneurs, it was a valuable opportunity to connect with the European drone value chain, share knowledge and build new relationships.
The mission yielded concrete leads and follow-up appointments. Several companies expressed their intentions for joint product development, testing and market exploration. Initial steps were also taken towards collaboration with manufacturers of unmanned aerial vehicles, technology clusters and knowledge institutions from Latvia and other countries.
"The Drone Summit in Riga has once again confirmed that cooperation within Europe is essential to effectively translate technological innovation into operational capabilities. At BSS Holland, we believe in the power of joint development and interoperability – with this mission, we have taken important steps towards new partnerships that contribute to a safer and more resilient Europe." – Robert Breedveld, CEO BSS Holland BV
“Well organised: we met with both the Ministry of Defence and potential chain partners in a short period of time. This allows us to move forward.” - Christiaan Haarmeijer, CEO Re-Lion
“This mission was strong in content and well organised. The discussions we had in Latvia could be the start of long-term cooperation.” – Bert Habets, CEO of colorFabb BV
Views on behalf of ROM-Nederland
During the summit, the Dutch delegation presented a recommendation on behalf of the regional development agencies (ROM-Nederland) to Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans. This recommendation emphasises the importance of structural European cooperation between the Netherlands and the Baltic states in the areas of innovation, production and training in the drone industry.
About the mission
The trade mission took place from 26 to 28 May in Riga, Latvia. Led by Oost NL and in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, NIDV, BOM, LIOF, InnovationQuarter, NOM and Horizon Flevoland, Dutch entrepreneurs explored the Latvian drone ecosystem. The programme included company visits, targeted matchmaking, networking opportunities and participation in the Drone Summit 2025, organised by the Latvian Ministry of Defence and Riga Technical University.
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