Latvian Ministry of Defense to Invest €200,000 in Next-Generation Helicopter Project

The Latvian Ministry of Defense has committed to supporting the European Defence Fund (EDF) project "ENGRT II", pledging approximately €200,000 from the state budget. The project is coordinated by the French company Airbus Helicopters and brings together over 40 companies from 13 countries.

The project aims to develop a next-generation helicopter architecture, utilizing new materials and revolutionary aerodynamic solutions. The new helicopter is expected to surpass current models in speed, range, and operational capabilities.

The ENGRT II project is set to begin in December 2025 and will run for 36 months. The total cost is €160,576,265, with the European Commission providing just under €100 million. The remaining €60,576,288 must be covered by member states in proportion to their national industry participation.

In Latvia, the company "Dati Group" is involved in the project, with a total participation of approximately €800,000. Of this amount, €600,000 is funded by the European Commission, and €200,000 is provided by the Ministry of Defense.