The Port of Riga will serve as a testing site for secure maritime communication technologies under a new partnership between LVR Flote and HARDMODE.
The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the Techritory Forum in Riga on October 22, 2026.
The agreement aims to develop and test communication systems that can support port operations during network disruptions and other challenging conditions.
The partners will test new technologies in real port operations. They will also explore joint research projects and opportunities to introduce successful solutions at other European ports.
The project will focus on communication systems that remain operational when conventional networks become unavailable.
HARDMODE develops solutions that combine several communication technologies. These include mobile, non-terrestrial, tactical and narrowband networks.
The approach is designed to keep port equipment, sensors, vehicles, drones and personnel connected through different communication channels.
It also uses a decentralized network structure, allowing connected devices to exchange information directly.
Potential applications at the Port of Riga include infrastructure monitoring, hydrographic surveys, maintenance activities and navigation safety.
The initiative comes amid concerns about GNSS interference in the Baltic Sea region, which has affected maritime activities in recent years.
LVR Flote provides technical services and supports infrastructure operations at the Port of Riga. Its involvement will allow the partners to assess new technologies against actual port requirements.
“Port technical services have to keep running in everyday operations and in a crisis alike,” said Kaspars Ozoliņš, Member of the Board of LVR Flote.
The companies also plan to create an open testing framework for other technology providers. This could include developers of monitoring systems, sensors, automation solutions and digital port services.
HARDMODE will contribute its communication technology, while LVR Flote will provide operational expertise and access to real-world testing conditions.
The partnership also creates opportunities for joint research between Latvia and the Netherlands, reflecting HARDMODE’s connections to both countries.
The companies intend to explore how successful pilot projects could eventually be deployed across other European ports.
However, the announcement does not specify an investment value or a timetable for the planned trials.
