Sweden Joins NATO Mission in Latvia for the First Time with Troops and Military Equipment

Military equipment and soldiers of the Swedish mechanised infantry battalion from the South Skåne Regiment arrived in Latvia on Saturday, the Latvian Ministry of Defence said. The battalion will join NATO's Multinational Brigade in Latvia, which is part of the country's Multinational Division North.

This is the first deployment of a Swedish NATO mission since Sweden became a member of the NATO Alliance on 7 March 2024. The deployment of Swedish troops to Latvia is part of the Alliance-wide effort to defend NATO's eastern flank. NATO's unity and strength are the foundation of multinational support for Latvia's commitment to peace and security.

 ‘The number of Alliance soldiers and military equipment in Latvia continues to grow. Sweden's joining NATO's multinational brigade in Latvia is a clear indication that the Alliance stands united and that any hostile actions by Russia will be met with a clear response. I am convinced that our joint military exercises will provide a great experience for both us and our allies,’ said Defence Minister Andris Sprūds. 

The troops were welcomed at the port of Riga, where ships with basic equipment also arrived. They will train alongside their NATO allies.

‘We welcome the Swedish infantry battalion to NATO's multinational brigade in Latvia. Their presence is a valuable addition to our forces, enhancing our collective defence efforts and strengthening regional security. Each contributing nation directly contributes to the success of the Brigade, demonstrating the strong alliance and will to protect peace in our world,’ said Colonel Cedric Aspiro, Commander of NATO's Multinational Brigade Latvia.

In the coming weeks, a formal handover ceremony will take place to officially join the Swedish forces to NATO's mission in Latvia.