Latvia delivers “Stinger” anti-aircraft missile system to Ukraine

On February 23 Latvia delivered “Stinger” anti-aircraft missile systems to Ukraine in order to strengthen the air defence capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the ability to protect its population from Russian aggression.

The endowment to Ukraine was accompanied in Latvia by Baiba Bļodniece, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Defence of Latvia. During handover to the Ukrainian Armed Forces Ukraine it was received by the Ambassador of Latvia to Ukraine Ilgvars Kļava and the Defence Attaché of Latvia Colonel Aleksandrs Holmanovs,

“Latvia supports Ukraine and its efforts to protect their country, so we have sent endowment – the “Stinger” missile system, so that, if necessary, the Ukrainian Armed Forces can protect their citizens, schools, hospitals and kindergartens,” emphasizes B. Bļodniece, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Defence of Latvia. “At the same time Latvia hopes that Ukraine will never have to use these missile systems.”

It has already been reported that in January Latvia’s Defence Minister Artis Pabriks announced that in response to Russia's aggressive actions, Latvia would send “Stinger” anti-aircraft missile system, individual equipment and dry food supplies to Ukraine. On February 15, in a closed session, the Cabinet of Ministers of Latvia supported the endowment delivering to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Given the legitimate concerns and the need to strengthen Ukraine's defence capabilities, the Baltic defence ministers at a meeting in Lithuania at the end of last year emphasized their immediate readiness to provide non-military and military support to Ukraine, including the supply of arms.

“Stinger” is one of the most manufactured, most tested and effective individual air defence systems in combat conditions, which is also used by many of Latvia's allied countries, such as the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Finland, Norway and Lithuania.

Contact information:
Anete Gnēze
Head of the Media Relations Section
Military Public Affairs Department
Cell: +371 26474087
E-pasts: Anete.Gneze@mod.gov.lv