Sweden has deployed troops to Latvia, marking its first land forces mobilization in another NATO member’s territory since joining the alliance last year.
A Swedish mechanized infantry battalion from the South Skåne Regiment arrived at Riga Port with ships carrying essential equipment.
“This marks a historic milestone,” said Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson. “As part of NATO’s collective defense we strengthen the security of the Baltic region and stand united for a safer future.”
Under the initiative, Swedish and Latvian forces will train together, joining the NATO Multinational Brigade as part of the Multinational Division North based in Latvia.
“The number of Allied soldiers and military equipment continues to increase in Latvia,” said Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds.
Sweden’s accession to NATO “is a clear sign that the alliance is united, and any hostile actions by Russia will be followed by a clear response,” he added.
Swedish Land Forces
Since Moscow invaded Ukraine in 2022, Scandinavian and Baltic countries have intensified their defense efforts along Europe’s eastern flank.
Stockholm announced its plan to send forces to Latvia in April 2024, a month after becoming NATO’s 32nd member state following a nearly two-year accession process.
The program involves a six-month deployment of 600 soldiers, CV90 armored vehicles, and Leopard 2 main battle tanks.
This initiative is part of NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence program, which strengthens deterrence and defense on the alliance’s eastern front by deploying multinational ground units.
