Sweden Joins NATO Forces in Latvia, Strengthening Regional Security
In a significant demonstration of unity and commitment to collective defence, today a Swedish Mechanized Infantry Battalion from the South Skåne Regiment arrived in Latvia to join the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia, as part of the Multinational Division North based in the country.
“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,” Defence Minister Andris Spruds said.
This is the first Swedish NATO mission deployment since Sweden became a member of the NATO Alliance on March 7, 2024. Deploying Swedish troops to Latvia is part of the efforts of the entire Alliance to protect NATO’s eastern flank. NATO unity and strength are the bedrock of the multinational support to Latvia, committed to peace and security.
The troops were welcomed at Riga Port, where ships carrying essential equipment also arrived. They will train together with their NATO Allies.
Present at the event was the Minister of Defence of Latvia Andris Sprūds, the Commander of Multinational Division North Major General Jette Albinus, the Commander of Multinational Brigade Latvia Colonel Cédric Aspirault, the Commander of Swedish Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Henrik Rosdahl.
“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.
In the coming weeks a formal Transfer of Authority ceremony will take place, officially integrating Swedish forces into the NATO mission in Latvia.
Contacts:
NATO Multinational Division North, Public Affairs:
Kristine Meistere, + 371 26477267, Kristine.Meistere@reach.nato.int
NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia, Public Affairs:
Capt Erick Theberge, +371 2440 9947
South Skåne Regiment, Public Affairs:
Chief Public Affairs, Marcus Nilsson: +46 708 57 45 04, marcus.2.nilsson@mil.se
Public Affairs, Felix Sundbäck: +46 723 87 99 81, felix.sundback@mil.se
