A Swedish mechanized infantry battalion from the South Skåne Regiment arrived in Latvia on 20 January to integrate with the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia, which is part of the Multinational Division North stationed in the nation.
This marks the inaugural deployment of Swedish forces under NATO since Sweden officially joined the NATO Alliance on 7 March 2024. The deployment of Swedish troops to Latvia is a crucial component of the Alliance’s collective efforts to safeguard NATO’s eastern flank.
The Swedish battalion’s mission in Latvia will initially last for six months and the battalion will establish itself at Camp Valdemar. In February, command of the battalion will be handed over to the brigade. Following this transition, a comprehensive series of exercises involving the entire brigade will take place.
“The number of Allied soldiers and military equipment continues to increase in Latvia. Sweden’s accession to the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia is a clear sign that the Alliance is united, and any hostile actions by Russia will be followed by a clear response. I am convinced that our joint military exercises will provide excellent experience for both us and our Allies,” Latvian Defence Minister Andris Spruds said.
“I have been looking forward to the arrival of the Swedes and warmly welcome Sweden to their first full-fledged NATO mission. We look forward to collaborating with them in light of their expertise and participation in previous missions, I am confident they will make a decisive difference here in Latvia,” says the Commander of Multinational Division North Major General Jette Albinus.
“We welcome the Swedish Mechanized Infantry battalion to the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia. Their presence is a valued addition to our combat-ready force, enhancing our collective defence efforts and strengthening regional security. Every contributing nation directly impacts the success of the Brigade, demonstrating a solid alliance and willpower to protect the peace of our world,” says Colonel Cédric Aspirault, Commander of the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia.
“We are honoured to be here, and we are committed and ready to contribute to NATO’s collective defence and deterrence efforts in the region. It is history in the making, but also the new normal for us. We look forward to the important task that is ahead of us, and we take great pride in doing it together as Allies”, says Lieutenant Colonel Henrik Rosdahl, Commander of the 71st Mechanized Infantry Battalion.
