From May 5 to 15, large military exercises will take place across Latvia — residents may see more movement of equipment and military columns on the roads.
Military exercises "Kristāla bulta 2026" and "Spring Warrior" are starting in Latvia, involving around 4,700 servicemen, the National Armed Forces reported. The maneuvers will take place at training grounds and in various regions of the country, including some civilian areas.
The "Kristāla bulta 2026" exercises are organized by the mechanized infantry brigade of the Land Forces. The military will practice planning and conducting full-scale defensive operations in conditions as close to real-life as possible. Special attention will be paid to the coordination of units, the use of drones, and the interaction of different branches of the armed forces.
Additionally, the exercises will train reconnaissance, the integration of combat capabilities, and the evacuation of the wounded — including in cooperation with the Emergency Medical Service.
Simultaneously, the "Spring Warrior" exercises are being conducted, organized by the multinational NATO brigade in Latvia. Their task is to improve the interaction of allied forces in the defense of the country, including the deployment of units, logistics, and command systems.
The maneuvers involve not only units of the National Armed Forces and the National Guard but also NATO allies. About 2,500 soldiers and 500 units of equipment are participating in "Kristāla bulta 2026," while "Spring Warrior" includes over 2,200 soldiers and approximately 300 units of equipment.
The exercises are taking place at training grounds in Ādaži and Selija, as well as in the territories of "Latvijas valsts meži" and in several regions — from Aizkraukle and Sigulda to Latgale. Activities are planned, including in the vicinity of Gulbene, Rēzekne, Daugavpils, and other cities.
The National Armed Forces emphasize that such exercises help strengthen cooperation between Latvian and allied troops, as well as enhance readiness for defense.
Residents are warned: in the coming days, there will be noticeably more military equipment across the country, and drones will also be used during the exercises.
After the maneuvers, the areas are promised to be restored to order.
These exercises are part of regular training aimed at strengthening Latvia's defense capabilities and cooperation with allies.
