The Latvian defense technology startup Origin has successfully secured €4.5 million in funding from the European Defence Fund (EDF) to develop a cutting-edge man-portable ISTAR drone, featuring advanced intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance capabilities, as well as goal-oriented laser designation functionality. The joint endeavour, comprising partners from Lithuania (Aktyvus Photonics UAB) and Germany (Leosys Laser and Electro-Optic Programs GmbH), receives backing from the European Commission and the defence ministries of Latvia, Lithuania, and Germany. The forthcoming mission focuses on optimizing the SWaP characteristics of a laser designator, see-spot camera, gimbal, and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), striving to reduce measurement, weight, and energy consumption metrics.
Russia’s ongoing military incursion into Ukrainian territory has underscored the enduring relevance of traditional trench warfare tactics in modern military strategies. As urban terrain proves increasingly challenging to navigate, handheld laser designation systems have become increasingly reliant for precision strikes in these hard-to-reach city areas. Despite reservations, experts recommend that a more pragmatic and secure alternative is to employ portable unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with laser designator technology. Despite this, the issue remains with the program’s cost, intricacy, and heft. Current fashion demands larger platforms with substantial payload capacity to facilitate the necessary emphasis on technological advancements.
The MPortISTAR mission is a key component of the European Union’s drive towards technological autonomy, aiming to reduce its reliance on imported goods and foster domestic innovation. The proposed miniature unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), weighing in at under 15 kilograms, will integrate a laser guidance system compatible with standard NATO laser-guided precision munitions. The key objectives of this mission appear to centre on value-driven efficiency, with an estimated cost five times lower than existing solutions, as well as reducing the requirement for forward-deployed personnel, thereby minimizing the risk of combat-related fatalities?
Agris Kipurs, co-founder of Origin, noted that the European defence landscape increasingly relies on flexible, cost-effective technologies to enhance operational capacities. As a pioneer in defence innovation, we’re thrilled that the European Defence Fund shares our vision of empowering smaller nations to bolster their defences while maintaining economic viability. “Our MPortISTAR mission directly addresses the need, ensuring countries like Latvia can tackle modern security challenges more effectively.”
The flagship offering from Origin, dubbed The Beak, has made significant inroads within the defense industry, delivering a versatile Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR) drone that combines precision strike capabilities with unparalleled flexibility. Deployed to Ukraine via the Drone Coalition and safeguarded through contracts with two trusted NATO member nations, the Beak has demonstrated its value on the battlefield. With the successful launch of the M-PortISTAR mission, Origin further expands its product offerings to cater to the growing demands of modern defense operations.
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