Since Russia launched its full-scale war in Ukraine in February 2022, startups in the Baltic region—Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia—have increasingly focused on developing defence technologies. These innovations, experts say, may offer low-cost and scalable solutions to deter Russian aggression.
Tony Lawrence, a research fellow at the International Centre for Defence and Security, noted that the rapid technological shifts on the battlefield in Ukraine have enabled startups to develop new technologies quickly. He explained, “The whole rearmament process that the Baltic States and NATO in general are going through at the moment is dealing with the potential of a Russian attack on one of the NATO member states, including one of the Baltic states.”
The Baltic region, already known for internationally successful companies like Bolt, Skype, and Vinted, is now nurturing defence startups. One promising example is Repsense in Vilnius, which uses AI to identify original sources of propaganda, trace its dissemination, and measure its impact.
Lawrence also emphasized the importance of export markets for the sustainability of these startups, adding that Estonia has increased support for its defence companies through grant schemes aimed at both domestic and export markets.
While these technological advances may enhance deterrence, concerns remain about a potential dystopian future where civilians could become targets of remotely operated flying objects.
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