Origin receives 4.5 million euros from the European Defense Fund

Latvia, Lithuania and Germany are working together to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities with cutting-edge drone technology

Riga, Latvia, November 27, 2024 - Latvian defense technology company Origin has received €4.5 million from the European Defense Fund (EDF). With this funding, the company will advance the development of MPortISTAR, a man-portable drone for reconnaissance, target acquisition and laser target designation (ISTAR). The aim of the project is to create a cost-effective alternative to larger drones and to facilitate the use of precision-guided munitions on platforms weighing less than 15 kg.

The project is being carried out in close cooperation with partners from Lithuania (Aktyvus Photonics UAB) and Germany (Leosys Laser and Electro-Optic Systems GmbH) and is supported by the European Commission and the Ministries of Defense of the three countries. The MPortISTAR drone will be a key tool for NATO standards in laser-guided precision weapons.

Responding to modern challenges

The importance of the new technology is underlined by current geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Especially in hard-to-reach, urban or dangerous terrain where precision strikes are necessary, MPortISTAR is designed to relieve soldiers and minimize risks. The drone will integrate modern technology such as laser target marking systems and "see-spot" cameras to undercut previous solutions in terms of both size and cost.

The European defense system urgently needs adaptable, affordable technologies that increase operational capability. With MPortISTAR, we are addressing this need to provide small and medium-sized states like Latvia with better defense capabilities.

Agris Kipurs, co-founder of Origin

Focus on efficiency and autonomy

The MPortISTAR drone aims to strengthen the EU's technological self-reliance and reduce dependence on imports. With an estimated cost of one fifth of existing technologies, it will reduce not only financial but also operational costs.

Origin has already attracted international attention with its product The Beak. This ISR drone (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) is used in Ukraine and by NATO partner countries. With MPortISTAR, Origin is now expanding its portfolio to respond even better to the growing challenges of modern defense operations.