On January 14, 2026, Latvian Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds visited SAF Tehnika to see firsthand the prototype of a radio signal jamming system developed by the company in cooperation with the Autonomous Systems Competence Center and designed to neutralize unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones. Within the framework of the project, the Competence Center provides support in testing, defining operational requirements and other system development–related processes.
“This is an unprecedented case in which high-level technologies — specifically in the field of electronic warfare — are being developed in Latvia,”
says Major Modris Kairišs, Head of the Autonomous Systems Competence Center.
The demonstration was held within the framework of the research and development agreement between the Ministry of Defence of Latvia and SAF Tehnika, titled “Development of Counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Solutions.”
What Is a Radio Signal Jamming System and How Does It Work?
A radio signal jamming system is an electronic warfare device that intentionally disrupts or blocks radio communications by transmitting powerful signals in specific frequency ranges.
Drones commonly rely on both radio communications to connect with their operator and global navigation satellite systems (such as GPS) to orient themselves in space and navigate accurately. When these signals are disrupted, a drone loses control, can no longer determine its position, and becomes unable to complete its mission.
The solution developed by SAF Tehnika is designed to effectively and controllably disrupt drone communications to protect critical infrastructure sites.
A Significant Step in Protecting Critical Infrastructure
Counter-drone technologies are becoming an increasingly essential security element in military defence, the protection of critical infrastructure, strategically important facilities, and government and municipal institutions.
“Security and defence are our shared priority and a collective effort. SAF Tehnika has been one of the flagships in the development of communication solutions for autonomous systems, and this cooperation significantly contributes to the technological advancement of the National Armed Forces. The foundation that has been developed over many years in the civilian sector now enables the use of accumulated potential, knowledge and expertise in strengthening and modernizing military capabilities,”
says Andris Sprūds, Minister of Defence of Latvia.
During the demonstration, the SAF Tehnika presented the project’s progress, current technical achievements, and the operating principles of the prototype.
“In war, speed beats perfection. An ideal system is worthless if you don’t have it. During this development process, we have spent a great deal of time with Ukrainian defenders and have come to understand that in war — and especially in electronic warfare — the ability to learn and adapt is what separates life from death. We are still learning ourselves. And today we are demonstrating the first tangible result of this project. It may not be perfect yet, but it works,”
emphasizes Normunds Bergs, Chairman of the Board of SAF Tehnika.
Strengthening National Competencies
As previously reported by the Ministry of Defence, in March 2025 three R&D contracts for the development of counter-drone technologies were signed with Origin Robotics, SAF Tehnika and Frankenburg Technologies.
These projects form an important part of Latvia’s strategic effort to strengthen national competencies and enhance the capabilities of the National Armed Forces in counter-UAV operations.
SAF Tehnika continues to develop innovative, secure and practically deployable solutions that contribute to strengthening the defence capabilities of Latvia, Ukraine and NATO member states.
Download news announcement in Latvian in the link below: SAF Tehnika demonstrē pretdronu traucēšanas iekārtas prototipu
