Latvia’s president warns that Europe is not up to date with drone and aerial warfare in Ukraine

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Published: 2026-09-18T22:35:54.436Z • Permanent link

Edgars Rinkēvičs, Latvia's president, has sounded a stark warning that Europe is lagging behind in preparing for drone and aerial warfare in Ukraine. Rinkēvičs revealed that drone warfare in Ukraine is advancing at a "lightning speed", leaving Europe's efforts to catch up potentially obsolete by next year. This warning comes amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, and a growing recognition that the conflict may not be limited to traditional ground-based warfare.

Rinkēvičs' comments are backed by data from various sources, including the Ukrainian military and independent analysts. According to a recent report by the Institute for the Study of War, Ukraine has been actively developing its drone capabilities, with a focus on anti-tank and anti-aircraft missions. The report notes that Ukraine has already seen significant success with its drone-based operations, including the destruction of Russian artillery and air defenses.

Meanwhile, European military leaders have been acknowledging the growing threat posed by drone warfare in Ukraine. In a recent interview, the commander of NATO's Joint Forces Command Europe, Admiral Jean-Paul Poudioux, noted that "drone warfare is a game-changer" in modern conflict. Poudioux emphasized the need for European militaries to invest in drone technology and training, in order to stay ahead of the rapidly evolving threat.

Rinkēvičs' warning has significant implications for the Data Sources domain, particularly in terms of the impact on companies and research communities involved in drone technology and defense. Companies such as Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, which have been developing advanced drone systems for the US military, may see increased demand for their products in the coming years. However, the rapid pace of innovation in drone technology also poses significant challenges for these companies, as they strive to keep pace with the evolving threat.

Researchers and analysts at institutions such as the RAND Corporation and the Center for Strategic and International Studies have been studying the implications of drone warfare in Ukraine, and are working to develop new strategies for mitigating the threat. However, the rapid pace of change in the field is making it increasingly difficult for these researchers to keep up, and Rinkēvičs' warning has highlighted the need for greater investment in drone technology and training.

Rinkēvičs' warning is part of a larger pattern of recognition that the conflict in Ukraine is not just a traditional ground-based war, but a complex and multifaceted conflict that involves a range of new technologies and tactics. This includes not just drones, but also cyber warfare, electronic warfare, and advanced sensors and communication systems. The conflict has also highlighted the need for greater investment in defense infrastructure, including air defenses and command and control systems.