Mūrniece: NATO allies are able to support Latvia's defence quickly and with high firepower

On Saturday, 17 June, two US B-1B Lancer strategic bombers that are permanently stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota and Dyess Air Force Base in Texas conducted a low overflight of Riga.

"The US bomber training overflight of Riga is a testament to the NATO allies' ability to support Latvia's defence with speed and firepower," said Defence Minister Ināra Mūrniece.

These US strategic bombers were involved in exercises in Latvia, where the National Armed Forces improved their indirect fire support capability and the US Air Force trained its ability to respond rapidly to security challenges.

The US Air Force regularly deploys its aircraft and personnel in NATO Member States, thus facilitating cooperation with allied air forces, enhancing interoperability and increasing combat readiness.

Strategic bomber sorties demonstrate the US contribution to NATO's collective defence and deterrence capabilities.

The US is a long-standing strategic partner and ally of Latvia, playing an important role in strengthening Latvia's security.

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