Latvian National Armed Forces prepare for hybrid provocations

Kaspars Pudāns, commander of the Latvian National Armed Forces (NBS), stated that while there is currently no direct military threat to Latvia, the military is preparing for potential hybrid provocations from Russia. He noted that there is no increased presence of aggressor state armed forces near the Latvian border, making a repeat of the 2021 scenario seen in Ukraine unlikely at this time.

Despite the lack of direct military threat, the NBS is managing risks associated with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, including the potential for foreign unmanned aerial vehicles to enter Latvian airspace. To mitigate these risks, the NBS and NATO allies maintain continuous airspace surveillance. Mobile air defense units, some equipped with interceptor drones, have been on constant duty at the border since autumn 2024.

Additionally, the military is providing reinforced support to the State Border Guard to combat illegal migration and deter organizers of illegal crossings. This increased presence in eastern Latvia is intended to allow for faster responses to various provocations. This support will continue through the comprehensive national defense exercise 'Namejs 2026'.