Critical Infrastructure Technologies Ltd. (CSE: CTTT) (OTC: CITLF) (FRA: X9V), known as CiTech, has successfully obtained an Innovation Certificate for dual-use technology from the Latvian Ministry of Defence. This certification enables the company to formally apply to ALTUM (https://www.altum.lv), Latvia's state development finance institution, for funding support toward establishing manufacturing operations in Liepaja, Latvia.
Under the ALTUM innovation support framework, CiTech intends to apply for up to EUR 3.0 million in project financing. Upon successful completion of the project, the loan may be eligible for a capital discount of up to 30%, which would significantly enhance the company's capital efficiency as it establishes its European manufacturing base. The total project cost is estimated at approximately EUR 4.0 million, with CiTech required to contribute approximately EUR 1.0 million (25%) and the balance funded through the proposed ALTUM facility.
The funding will support the commencement of operations in Liepaja, including securing suitable industrial premises, employing up to six staff, engaging suppliers throughout Latvia and the broader European Union, and building five Nexus 20 units that will be marketed and sold within Latvia and/or the EU. CiTech is currently in discussions to lease a facility in the Liepaja Special Economic Zone where the corporate tax rate is 4%.
The Innovation Certificate formally recognizes CiTech's dual-use technology and strengthens the company's integration within the European defence and security ecosystem. This development supports CiTech's growing European presence, complementing its partnerships across NATO's Eastern Flank and its previously announced plans to position Latvia as its European Headquarters. Brenton Scott, Chief Executive Officer of CiTech, commented that this strategy will help fast-track operations into Latvia and further entrench the company within the EU, recognizing the dual-use capability of their technology and providing a clear pathway to accelerate their European manufacturing strategy.
For the European technology and defence sectors, this development represents increased investment in dual-use technologies that serve both civilian and military applications. The establishment of manufacturing capacity in Latvia could create local employment opportunities and strengthen the region's technological infrastructure. For investors and industry observers, this move signals CiTech's commitment to expanding its operational footprint in Europe while leveraging government support mechanisms designed to foster innovation and economic development.
The company's focus on autonomous, high-capacity mobile communications platforms positions it to address critical infrastructure needs across multiple sectors. The Nexus 20 units produced in Latvia will generate significant revenue while supporting the company's broader market strategy. This development comes as European nations increasingly prioritize secure, resilient communications infrastructure, particularly in border security, surveillance, and emergency response contexts where rapid deployment capabilities are essential.
CiTech will provide further updates as the ALTUM application progresses. The company's website at https://www.citech.com.au provides additional information about its technology and operations. This strategic expansion represents a significant step in CiTech's international growth strategy and demonstrates how government certification programs can facilitate technology transfer and manufacturing localization within the European Union.
