Latvia Namejs 2026 military exercises

Latvia scheduled the ‘Namejs 2026’ large-scale national defense exercises to run from September 2 to October 8. The maneuvers involve approximately 12,000 personnel from the Latvian National Armed Forces, National Guard, and reserve soldiers, alongside NATO allies including Canada, the United States, Estonia, and Lithuania.

The exercises focus on testing cooperation against military threats, with a specific emphasis on unmanned aerial systems and anti-drone capabilities. The drills also include mobilization training and multi-sector coordination to ensure the continuity of essential services like energy, transport, and communications during a crisis.

By mid-September, the exercises moved into an active phase in Riga. From September 16 to September 20, drills included the movement of military equipment and personnel through various neighborhoods, such as Brasas, Teika, and Bolderāja. These activities involved establishing training checkpoints, anti-mobility obstacles, and flights by military and unmanned aerial vehicles. The exercises also prioritized the protection of critical infrastructure, including the ‘Daugavgrīva’ biological treatment station.