On November 14, at the Ādaži Military Training Area, a demonstration took place as part of NATO's multinational brigade in Latvia’s first full-scale exercise, Resolute Warrior 2024. Simultaneously, the Latvian security and defense industry showcased its capabilities and achievements during the event. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs, and Minister of Defense Andris Sprūds visited the stands of Latvian companies.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs, at a press conference, acknowledged that observing the multinational brigade’s demonstration today confirms NATO’s strong presence in Latvia. “We must do everything to ensure more NATO forces are stationed here. At the same time, NATO member states must do much more to strengthen not only military forces but also to mobilize the defense industry,” said the President.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte noted: “Latvia sets an example, spending over 3% of its GDP on defense. We all need to invest more in defense and expand military production to ensure we have both the necessary equipment and capabilities to protect our citizens.”
During the event, both President Rinkēvičs and Secretary General Rutte explored innovations and products developed by Latvian companies in the defense sector. They discussed current issues and challenges with entrepreneurs. The Latvian defense industry represented fields such as unmanned aerial and aquatic drones, specialized military equipment, combat rations for soldiers, information technology, shelter/bunker construction, medical equipment production, medical training simulators, specialized military vehicles, and more. A full list of companies can be found in the annex.
Elīna Egle, Chair of the Board of DAIF Latvia, summarized the event, stating: “Today, 25 companies participated, but overall, we unite over 130 members. Latvia’s industry has strong potential for future development, and we demonstrated this to the NATO Secretary General and allied representatives. We are ready to contribute to strengthening defense capabilities both in Latvia and in other NATO member states.”
NATO’s multinational brigade in Latvia conducted its first full-scale exercise, Resolute Warrior 2024, from November 1 to 14 across Vidzeme and Zemgale, with the participation of over 3,500 allied troops. The exercise demonstrated the brigade’s ability to lead operations by integrating all subordinate and support units.
Additional Information
DAIF Latvia is the sole organization representing the security and defense industries and research at the national and international levels. It unites companies, educational and research institutions, and associate members, including prominent foreign military manufacturers.
As part of the European Union-funded project No. 5.1.1.2.i.0/3/24/A/CFLA/008, “Establishing a Latvian Security and Defense Industry Cooperation Network”, DAIF Latvia has brought together 32 companies and six higher education institutions. The project’s goal is to secure funding to increase international cooperation, research, and development investments in Latvia’s security and defense industries, aligning with the priorities of national, EU, and NATO internal and external security policies.
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