In the second half of this year, Latvia will receive the first medium-range air defense systems "IRIS-T," Defense Minister Andris Spruds stated on Twitter.
He emphasized that "IRIS-T" provides not only medium-range air defense but also high accuracy, including against small and low-flying targets such as drones and missiles.
The "IRIS-T" systems will be delivered to Latvia from 2026 to 2029.
"Together with Estonia, we are investing one billion euros in a modern multi-layered air defense system by implementing the "IRIS-T" systems and significantly strengthening the security of the region," the minister emphasized.
As reported, from 2023 to 2027, Latvia has committed to allocate an additional 200 million euros annually to strengthen air defense, investing a total of 1 billion euros in this area over five years to enhance defense capabilities in the changing geopolitical situation.
On November 30, 2023, the Ministry of Defense signed a contract with the German company "Diehl Defence" for the procurement of "IRIS-T" systems.
The contract worth 600 million euros provides for the procurement of equipment for the effective operation of the "IRIS-T" systems, which will ensure the introduction of a multi-layered air defense in Latvia.
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