Ināra Mūrniece: Latvia strengthens its national defence capabilities

In 2022, Latvia significantly strengthened its national defence capabilities by investing in both the material and technical equipment of the National Armed Forces and the professional development of its soldiers and conscripts.

"Russia's brutal war in Ukraine has made Europe see the true face of Russia and its imperialist ambitions. We, the Baltics, were under no illusions. Latvia is strengthening its national defence capabilities in close cooperation with our allies. In 2023, we need to go a step further by making every Latvian aware of their role and responsibility in national defence," said Defence Minister Ināra Mūrniece.

This year, 2 271 new National Guard soldiers have joined the ranks, which is three times more than in 2021. Currently, the number of National Guard soldiers in Latvia is close to the 10 000 mark. Meanwhile, 407 Latvian citizens have been recruited for professional service in the National Armed Forces and for studies at the National Defence Academy.

In 2022, the National Armed Forces conducted about 120 military exercises, including exercises with soldiers from NATO allies. The Latvian Armed Forces have also had good experience as a host nation, having hosted troops from the USA and Denmark alongside the permanent NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Latvia.

In the context of the development of combat capabilities, the Latvian Land Forces continued their mechanisation project with the order of more than 200 Patria 6x6 armoured personnel carriers, which are manufactured in Latvia. The Air Force received in December the first two of a total of four US UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters ordered by Latvia. The air defence capabilities of the Armed Forces have also been strengthened by ordering Saab RBS-70 NG systems and 1X fire control radars. Indirect fire support capability is being strengthened in a targeted manner through the acquisition of mortar ammunition and vehicles and the continued acquisition of UAVs.

Contact information:
Roberts Skraučs
Head of the Media Relations Section
Military Public Affairs Department
Tel.: 67335393
E-mail: roberts.skraucs@mod.gov.lv