Main image: The defense ministers of Sweden and Latvia have signed a roadmap to strengthen defense cooperation between the two countries.
Latvia and Sweden have officially formalized their defense alliance against Russian aggression by signing a strategic “roadmap” in Riga. The main outcome of the agreement is the deployment of Swedish long-range Archer artillery systems on Latvian territory this year, effectively turning the region into a single reinforced NATO stronghold, as reported by LSM.
As emphasized by Latvian Minister Andris Sprūds, the two countries aim to deepen cooperation on land, at sea, and in the air. The document covers industrial collaboration, joint procurement of advanced systems such as Archer wheeled artillery, as well as joint work on air defense, drones, and critical infrastructure protection.
The action plan includes maintaining a Swedish military presence within the NATO multinational brigade in Latvia, including the rotation of a mechanized battalion and air defense support. In addition, Sweden plans to participate in NATO missions for airspace patrol, while Latvia is working to ensure additional air force presence on its territory in the near future.
The roadmap pays special attention to the Baltic Sea. Riga and Stockholm plan to strengthen coastal defense, maritime surveillance, and underwater infrastructure protection, as well as develop maritime drone systems. According to Sprūds, Sweden’s military presence in Latvia demonstrates allied solidarity and makes an important contribution to NATO’s collective defense. Swedish Defense Minister Pål Henning Jonsson noted strong interest in Latvian drone testing ranges, stating that Sweden will invest an additional €500 million in drone and unmanned systems development, making the expanded use of Latvian test sites a priority.
One of the most anticipated outcomes of the cooperation could be the temporary deployment of Swedish Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets in Latvia, possibly within this year. For this, the countries need to sign a memorandum of understanding to allow rapid deployment of aircraft to various locations in addition to existing NATO missions in the Baltic region. Sprūds emphasized that all planned steps will be implemented as quickly as possible.
Beyond regional issues, the ministers also discussed the situation around Greenland and former US President Donald Trump’s claims to the island. Pål Henning Jonsson explained that sending Swedish instructors and troops from other European countries to exercises in Greenland sends a clear signal to Washington about the importance of the Arctic and the Far North. According to him, European NATO allies are ready to independently ensure security in this strategic region.
