Latvia Defense Minister questions Swedish Archer artillery purchase

Latvia's new Defense Minister, Raivis Melnis, has criticized the previous administration's decision to select the Swedish ‘Archer’ artillery system. Melnis stated that the Archer was the most expensive of two competing offers and noted that delivery would take several years, which could delay the National Armed Forces' development plans.

The decision to pursue the Archer system was made under former Defense Minister Andris Sprūds, following a letter of intent signed with Sweden. While the government has conceptually supported the plan, a formal contract has not yet been signed. Sprūds has rejected the criticisms, maintaining that the choice was based on the recommendations of military experts and the National Armed Forces.

The Latvian government is scheduled to meet in a closed session next week to decide whether to proceed with the purchase of the Swedish systems or abandon the deal. While the exact cost of the procurement has not been publicly disclosed, it is reported to be significantly higher than tens of millions of euros. The military seeks advanced systems capable of longer range and faster repositioning than the existing Austrian M109 howitzers currently in use.