The Latvian Air Force is evaluating the acquisition of light combat aircraft capable of intercepting unmanned aerial systems, with Embraer's A-29 Super Tucano identified as one candidate platform. Outgoing Air Force Commander Colonel Viesturs Masulis stated that the service received tasking from the National Armed Forces Joint Staff to determine effective counter-drone solutions, and preliminary contacts with aircraft manufacturers have already been initiated.
Latvia is currently awaiting financial and delivery estimates from defence manufacturers before conducting detailed analysis. Masulis noted that he would encourage incoming commander Colonel Edmunds Svenčs to focus on utilizing such platforms primarily as airborne air-defense assets against slow-flying drones. The Latvian government has committed over €1 billion toward strengthening overall air defense capability, with air-based solutions expected to complement the broader defense architecture.
