NATO deploys Eurofighters to secure Latvian airspace during elections

NATO has increased its aerial presence in Latvia to secure the airspace during the upcoming parliamentary elections on October 3. Four German Eurofighter jets have been stationed at the Lielvārde air base to provide temporary air defense and missile protection. This deployment is part of a broader regional effort, with Italian air forces operating from Lithuania and Turkish fighters stationed in Estonia.

The heightened security comes amid rising tensions on the eastern flank, following recent drone incidents near the Belarusian border. Additionally, the Latvian State Security Service (VDD) recently detained two citizens suspected of gathering intelligence for the Russian military intelligence agency, the GRU. The investigation suggests the suspects were targeting information regarding Latvian defense systems, NATO military activities, and support for Ukraine.