The development costs of the first phase of the Sēlija Military training area amount to approximately 36.5 million euros, the Ministry of Defence Press Department reports.
On Friday, the 20th of February, a live-fire training zone was officially inaugurated at the training area, marking a significant milestone in the development of Latvia’s defence infrastructure. The event was attended by President Edgars Rinkēvičs, Defence Minister Andris Sprūds, the leadership of the National Armed Forces (NAF), and other invited guests.
The opening of the training zone coincided with the completion of the first phase of construction, which ensures initial operational capabilities. During the first phase, a logistics support zone for units up to company level was built, as well as an ammunition storage area, three firing ranges, and an unexploded ordnance zone. In total, 15,590 hectares, or approximately 61% of the planned training area territory, have been taken over and developed. The first phase development costs amount to approximately 36.5 million euros.
“The opening of the training zone at the ‘Sēlija’ Military Training Area is an important step in strengthening Latvia’s defence capabilities and enhancing soldiers’ combat readiness. This will not only become the largest training area in the Baltics, but also a unique military training ground across the Nordic region where drone testing is possible.
It is a targeted investment in our security and a confirmation of our determination to defend Latvia,”
said A. Sprūds.
“With the development of the Sēlija Military training area, training opportunities for both the National Armed Forces and NATO allies in Latvia’s eastern region are being significantly expanded. The training area has already been used for tactical exercises, infantry and drone training, but going forward, soldiers will be able to use live ammunition in the newly established training zone, making exercises as close as possible to real combat conditions,” said NAF Commander Major General Kaspars Pudāns.
The training area is already actively used – tactical and engineering exercises, armoured vehicle movements, aircraft overflights, and unmanned aerial vehicle training take place on the territory. Since June 2025, a unique drone testing centre has also been operating at the site, conducting domestic and international drone and counter-drone tests.
Last year, the international military exercise “Baltic Trust 25” was held at the training area, with approximately 470 participants from Latvia and other NATO member states. Several international military exercises are also planned at the site this year, and
by mid-2027 the training area is expected to host and train soldiers of the State Defence Service.
The second phase of development is planned for 2026 to 2029, with the aim of ensuring full operational capability by developing collective training infrastructure and providing manoeuvre opportunities for brigade-level exercises. In line with further development, the training area will in the future also be able to host allied units for permanent training.
The 2022 NATO Summit in Madrid decision to increase the presence of allied forces in the Baltic states created the need to develop additional training infrastructure in Latvia. The decision to build the Sēlija Military training area is a strategic decision taken by Latvia to strengthen the country’s defence capabilities.
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