Photo: 'Frankenburg Technologies' Opens Missile Factory in Riga

Frankenburg Technologies has inaugurated a guided missile factory in Riga, Latvia, marking a significant step in European defense manufacturing. The facility will be involved in the production of the "Mark I" guided missile system, including the assembly of missile electronics, weapon systems, and the testing and quality control of finished products.

The construction of the Riga plant took one year. Alongside a planned final assembly factory in Ādaži, the combined production capacity is expected to reach 100 missiles per day by the end of the year. The Riga factory itself spans nearly 1,000 square meters and is set to employ 50 individuals.

Frankenburg Technologies plans to produce 1,500 missiles this year. The "Mark I" system is designed to drastically reduce the cost of intercepting drones, enabling the mass production of guided missiles to supply Europe and its allies.

Following the commencement of production in Latvia, Frankenburg Technologies intends to expand its operations to Estonia, the United Kingdom, and Poland. The company's CEO, Kusti Salms, stated the goal is to reach an annual production volume of one million missiles, a quantity deemed essential for Europe's defense needs.

Andrius Kubilius, the European Union's defense commissioner, emphasized the need for Europe to transition from limited, costly production to affordable systems manufactured in greater numbers. "Frankenburg's operation in Riga is a model of industrial goals and new thinking that Europe needs to strengthen its defense readiness," Kubilius remarked.