Ingrīda Ķirse: I take on the leadership of the company to advance Latvia’s defence industry and strengthen security

“I assume the leadership of “State Defence Corporation” Ltd. (the Corporation) with the utmost sense of responsibility in order to continue delivering on matters of critical importance to the defence sector and to Latvia – namely, the development of the defence industry and the strengthening of security,” emphasises the Corporation’s Board Member, Ingrīda Ķirse, who takes up her post today, 2 December 2024.

She was elected to the position for a five-year term at the company’s extraordinary shareholders’ meeting on 28 November 2024. Until now, I. Ķirse had served as the Corporation’s interim Board Member.

The newly appointed head of the company notes: “I have been with the company since its very first day of operation – late November last year. Over the past year, by establishing the company, the foundations have been laid for a new phase in the development of the national defence industry ecosystem. During this time, I have gained extensive experience, and work has commenced on building international strategic partnerships. I possess both the knowledge and understanding of the sector’s needs and priorities, as well as experience in managing large international companies. I bring my own vision and concrete actions for the next phase.”

As her priorities, I. Ķirse highlights the continued implementation of the project ROLLO – “Artillery Ammunition Modular Propellant Charge Assembly Plant”, including the construction of the facility, the launch of production, and securing the company’s first revenues. This is the most ambitious and a unique project for Latvia, important both for the National Armed Forces (NAF) and for Latvia’s integration into international supply chains.

It is also essential to engage in coordinating supply for the NAF and ensuring their needs are met, particularly with regard to critical requirements. With the aim of ensuring supply chain security for the armed forces, the Corporation will implement cooperation projects through which the industry will gain access to technologies, knowledge and expertise. The Corporation will also seek opportunities, in cooperation with Latvian businesses and researchers, to facilitate the transfer and application of research and development (R&D) results into production.

“The Corporation is committed to building long-term partnerships with defence industry stakeholders both in Latvia and globally, in order to develop additional production capacities and strengthen Latvia’s role in supply chains,” adds the head of the company.

Equally important is the development of the company itself and its governance in line with its size and maturity, ensuring that the Corporation manages state-allocated and investment funds effectively.

Reflecting on the company’s first year, I. Ķirse emphasises: “I am grateful to the Ministry of Defence and the sector for their support and cooperation to date. It is important that during this time the company has become recognised both in Latvia and internationally and is taken seriously as a partner. This is evidenced by cooperation proposals as well as discussions on potential future joint projects.”

I. Ķirse notes that two key objectives have been achieved in parallel over the past year. Firstly, the company itself has been established – the necessary operational documents have been developed and approved, processes based on principles of good governance have been introduced, an efficient and compact core team has been formed, and the material and technical base required for initial operations has been created.

Secondly, in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence and international partners, work has been promptly launched in line with Latvia’s and global security needs. In particular, the implementation of ROLLO has been initiated. Its objective is to increase the production capacity of modular charges in Europe, including the establishment of an ammunition assembly plant in Latvia. This represents Latvia’s entry point into international ammunition supply chains.

About “State Defence Corporation”

The Corporation was established following a decision by the Government of Latvia in November 2023. Its aims are to support the long-term development of Latvia’s defence industry, manage investments in the sector, and coordinate processes related to the production of military goods. Through these activities, the Corporation contributes to strengthening the supply capabilities of the NAF, supporting the growth of Latvia’s defence industry, and ensuring the security and continuity of international supply chains. The Corporation works in sectors that require significant state involvement and are not served by the private sector.

The Corporation also fosters national and cross-border cooperation and partnerships. The company is a wholly state-owned enterprise, with the Ministry of Defence acting as its shareholder.

MORE INFORMATION
AGNESE KORBE 
State Defence Corporation 
Communication and Stakeholder Relations Manager
+371 29110062 
agnese.korbe@defencecorporation.lv 
defencecorporation.lv
linkedin.com/defence-corporation