During the NATO summit in Madrid on Thursday, 30 June, Latvian Minister of Defence Artis Pabriks and his Estonian colleague Kalle Laanet signed a letter of intent on the procurement of medium range anti-air defence systems.
Pabriks stressed that Russian aggression in Ukraine has clearly outlined the need for anti-air defence systems.
NATO summit has given a clear signal – those who want to invest in their defence will be provided with aid. Estonia is a reliable partner and definitely one of the countries that contributes, says Estonian minister of defence, admitting that it is important that in addition to allied support, Estonia is prepared to contribute to anti-air defence.
The letter of intent will serve as the foundation for a joint procurement, allowing the two countries to coordinate activities and efficiently use the funding allocated for defence, as well as enhance the region’s stability and security in general.
By going though with this joint procurement with Estonia, work on deployment of a medium range anti-air defence system in Latvia will commence immediately.
It is also possible that other allies may be involved in the supply of the anti-air defence system.
Anti-air defence is a major element for Latvia’s military defence, because adoption of such a system would allow Latvia to shoot down the rockets that are now used to attack cities in Ukraine.
On 26 June Spanish surface to air missile system Nasams was delivered to Latvian air force base in Lielvārde.
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