Sweden is ready to deploy a combat battalion in Latvia

Sweden has announced its plans to join the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Latvia and deploy a combat battalion to Latvia after finalising its accession to NATO. 

“We are happy that Sweden has decided to make this important step as it finalises NATO accession. It will be a strong contribution to our regional security and will boost Latvia’s national defence,” Defence Minister Andris Sprūds underlined.

Announcement about the deployment of battalion-size combat unit to Latvia as part of its commitment to contribute to stronger NATO defence and deterrence posture was made by Swedish prime minister Ulf Kristersson during Sweden’s Annual National Conference "Folk och Försvar" (Community and Security) in Sälen.

Minister Sprūds was invited to conference to give Swedish counterparts an insight into how Latvia implements its comprehensive national defence strategy and how this strategy is reflected in school curricula. This year’s annual conference also focused on issues such as Sweden’s path towards NATO membership, Russian invasion of Ukraine, misinformation threats and challenges to democracy, and many other priorities.

While attending the "Folk och Försvar" Annual National Conference, Defence Minister Andris Sprūds also had series of bilateral meetings with Sweden’ s Defence Minister Pål Jonson, General Micael Bydén, Supreme Commander of the Swedish Armed Forces, and Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Sweden’s Minister for Civil Defence. Officials discussed support for Ukraine, NATO priorities and bilateral cooperation.

Over many years of cooperation Latvia and Sweden have solidified close ties in a number of areas. Countries are also bound by shared vision of democracy and regional security.

Media contacts: 

MoD Military Public Affairs Department
Media Relations Section
Phone: 67335393
E-mail: prese@mod.gov.lv