Zurich/Riga — The Zurich-based deep tech startup nordfen is developing simulation technology for the Latvian center of excellence Drone Force – Europe in Riga to create realistic virtual training environments. These are intended to complement the training of drone pilots throughout Europe.
(CONNECT) According to a press release, Nordfen has entered into a partnership with Drone Force – Europe. Based in the Latvian capital of Riga, this nonprofit center of excellence specialises in drone education and training and in promoting cooperation in Europe. It is contributing its training infrastructure, its expertise in training, and its training programs to this partnership.
Founded in mid-2025 by three graduates of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH), this deep tech startup creates realistic virtual training environments using its simulation technology and leveraging geographic and satellite data. Applications for this technology include protecting critical infrastructure from unmanned threats, so-called adversarial testing, and simulations of drone attacks on industrial facilities and power grids.
As demand for these applications rises, so does the need for qualified drone pilots. "In this context, 'Drone Force – Europe offers something that no software company can achieve on its own: real students, highly qualified instructors, and field-tested curricula,'" co-founder and CEO Jack Kendall is quoted as saying in a report by "startupticker.ch." "We provide the technology to scale the entire operation—from pilot training to drone technology." The new training solutions are intended for use not only in Latvia but throughout Europe.
Nordfen's entry into the Latvian market is supported by the Latvian Investment and Development Agency. "The fact that a Swiss startup that emerged from the ETH Zurich innovation ecosystem is investing in Latvia confirms our country's high level of expertise in the field of drone technology," said Laura Štrovalde, the organization's deputy director. "I am convinced that this memorandum of understanding marks the beginning of a new phase in Latvian-Swiss innovation cooperation."
Since May 2026, Nordfen has also been part of the 20th cohort of ESA BIC Switzerland, the local accelerator program of the European Space Agency (ESA). The incubator is operated by ETH. ce/mm
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