In the near future, additional air defense systems will be deployed in Latvia, Defense Minister Raivis Melnis (in the photo) told reporters after the meeting of the Military Council.
The Ministry of Defense continues to strengthen the airspace protection system by developing a network of radar surveillance and interception means along the eastern border of the country, the minister explained.
According to him, the implementation of these plans is complicated by lengthy procurement procedures; however, a solution has been found.
"In the near future, we will deploy additional systems. Not only drones and radars are needed, but also their integration into a unified system, as well as the training of military personnel. Here, we should thank our Ukrainian partners for their support and experience," noted Melnis.
He also stated that the next step will be a more systematic approach to creating the Baltic defense line. The main tasks remain ensuring necessary land plots and placing engineering barriers.
The National Armed Forces (NAF) informed the Military Council about the progress of the third phase of the project, Melnis reported at a press conference, adding that after clarifying the needs of allies, it is planned to proceed with further works, including the creation of anti-tank ditches and the installation of obstacles.
The commander of the NAF, Kaspars Pudans, reported that the council was briefed on the current level of military readiness and proposals for its further enhancement in light of existing threats and possible scenarios for the development of the situation.
After the meeting of the Military Council, a meeting was held with the leaders of local governments in the eastern border area, as well as in the regions of Smiltene, Valmiera, Gulbene, and Madona. According to Pudans, the cooperation between the NAF and local governments has noticeably improved due to joint exercises and regular information exchange.
Melnis emphasized that in the future, institutions from the internal affairs system and the Crisis Management Center should be more actively involved in this dialogue.
