NATO developing combat robots amid growing threat from Russia - The Times

During these exercises, called Digital Highway, a robotic device was showcased that can autonomously scan the battlefield for enemy forces. The device was operated by Spanish military personnel located 2,000 miles away from the training site, made possible through 5G networks. NATO's goal is to technologically outpace potential adversaries, including Russia, and enhance the cooperation of military forces from different countries.

Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds noted that NATO aims to coordinate the work of various systems, including ground robots and unmanned aerial vehicles, which is especially crucial in light of modern threats.

Representatives from Estonia also participated in the exercises. The country's Prime Minister, Kristen Michal, stated that the future of modern warfare is being shaped in Ukraine, and to counter Russia, it is essential to maintain a technological advantage. He emphasized that NATO must set ambitious goals, as previous measures to strengthen defense have been insufficient.

Additionally, the Latvian company Origin Robotics presented its development — a high-precision weapon unmanned system called Beak, nicknamed the flying Javelin. This drone returns to base after completing its mission, making it more economical compared to traditional strike platforms.

During the exercises, unmanned systems were used for evacuating wounded soldiers and patrolling coastal areas. At the same time, NATO faces challenges in the political sphere: the potential return of Donald Trump to the White House raises concerns among European allies due to his criticism of aid to Ukraine and threats to withdraw from the alliance if European countries do not increase defense spending.

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa noted that Europe is eagerly awaiting the results of the US election, as the uncertainty creates an unstable situation amidst the conflict in Ukraine.

Threat to Europe from Russia

As early as 2022, US President Joe Biden warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin would not stop in Ukraine. According to him, without a NATO response, war and chaos could threaten all of Europe.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also repeatedly emphasized this threat. In November 2023, Zelenskyy stated that Russia, along with Iran, is involved in escalating tensions in the Middle East and seeks to provoke conflicts in other regions of the world.