Eight Latvian nationals detained in Estonia over attack on drone maker

Eight Latvian nationals have been detained in Estonia on suspicion of involvement in an attempted attack on Threod Systems, a defence industry company that makes drones. The Estonian prosecutor's office announced the detentions on Sunday, 15 November. The Estonian Internal Security Service (KaPo) says the attack was ordered by Russia's military intelligence service, the GRU.

The attempted bombing at the company's building in Viimsi took place at 3:06 a.m. on Saturday and was intended to set the building on fire. The company suffered no significant damage: its preparedness and the quick reaction of a guard prevented wider destruction. Threod Systems produces both long-range reconnaissance drones and attack drones.

Estonian Prosecutor General Astrid Asi said the case is being investigated under a Criminal Code provision covering acts against Estonia's security carried out on the orders of a foreign intelligence or security service, including information gathering or damaging property. KaPo Director General Margo Pallosaon said the information available to the service indicates that the GRU ordered the attack.

The role of Latvian agencies

Latvia's State Security Service (VDD) and prosecutor's office also took part in the investigation. The VDD obtained risk information about possible sabotage plans in Estonia and passed it to KaPo, after which the agencies began coordinated action. On 14 November the VDD carried out procedural actions at nine locations in Latvia linked to individuals. Searches turned up explosive items, pyrotechnics, ammunition and a large number of mobile phones and other data storage devices.

Assessments by the agencies

The VDD believes the aim of Russian-organised sabotage is to heighten tension and fear in society and to hinder support for Ukraine. According to the service, Russian special services are increasingly using citizens of other countries in 2026 to carry out sabotage in specific European countries, in order to complicate the work of European agencies and conceal the link to Russia.

KaPo assesses that defence companies in Estonia and across Europe are within the sphere of interest of Russian special services. The aim is to intimidate the public and business owners, disrupt production and technological development, and stop products from reaching Ukraine. The service urges companies to follow recommendations and improve physical and cyber security.

In September, a fire was reported at the Tallinn office of defence company Milrem in the Lasnamäe district, believed to be arson carried out on the orders of Russian special services. In recent months, other defence companies in Europe have also been targeted.