On August 11, 2026, the Latvian high-tech company 'LV-Teh' and the University of Latvia signed a strategic cooperation agreement to develop robotic systems and smart platforms for the Latvian Army. The 'HADES GEKON M2' is an unmanned, land-based drone platform demonstrated at the University of Latvia's Academic Centre capable of reconnaissance, evacuation of wounded personnel, engineering work, and adaptable for combat and air defense weapons. It can carry a payload of 300 kg, reach speeds of 50 km/h, and operate remotely up to 2 km via radio control or globally via satellite or Starlink connection. Fully developed in Latvia with predominantly European components and no Chinese parts to secure supply chains, it is designed specifically for Baltic conditions including marshes, wetlands, and dense forests. The Latvian Armed Forces signed a contract for the platform in April 2026. The agreement between LV-Teh and the university aims to merge scientific expertise in AI, computer vision, data analytics, and cybersecurity with practical industry experience to advance national defense technology and support international market competitiveness. This collaboration also provides research and training opportunities for students and young researchers. Quotes include Armands Sakne, Business Development Manager at LV-Teh, highlighting control capabilities and regional significance, and Enno Ence, Vice-Rector for Development at the University of Latvia, emphasizing the importance of university-industry cooperation.

On August 11, 2026, the Latvian high-tech company 'LV-Teh' and the University of Latvia signed a strategic cooperation agreement to develop robotic systems and smart platforms for the Latvian Army. The 'HADES GEKON M2' is an unmanned, land-based drone platform demonstrated at the University of Latvia's Academic Centre capable of reconnaissance, evacuation of wounded personnel, engineering work, and adaptable for combat and air defense weapons. It can carry a payload of 300 kg, reach speeds of 50 km/h, and operate remotely up to 2 km via radio control or globally via satellite or Starlink connection. Fully developed in Latvia with predominantly European components and no Chinese parts to secure supply chains, it is designed specifically for Baltic conditions including marshes, wetlands, and dense forests. The Latvian Armed Forces signed a contract for the platform in April 2026. The agreement between LV-Teh and the university aims to merge scientific expertise in AI, computer vision, data analytics, and cybersecurity with practical industry experience to advance national defense technology and support international market competitiveness. This collaboration also provides research and training opportunities for students and young researchers. Quotes include Armands Sakne, Business Development Manager at LV-Teh, highlighting control capabilities and regional significance, and Enno Ence, Vice-Rector for Development at the University of Latvia, emphasizing the importance of university-industry cooperation.