Latvia could devote 4.35% of GDP / Day to defense next year
She pointed out that the government is moving towards the goal in order to ensure Latvia’s compliance with NATO’s capabilities and that citizens were safe.
The Prime Minister recalled that the Cabinet had previously conceptually agreed that Latvia is moving towards 5% of GDP defense expenses. One of the things related to it is the purchase of a 42 infantry combat machine « Ascod ». They are designed for arming one additional battalion.
Siliņa explained that this means that Latvia is rapidly increasing defense capabilities and meets NATO requirements. « But it also means that defense expenses could reach 4.35% of GDP next year, » Silina said.
It has already been reported that NATO has agreed on the largest armament program since the Cold War. It provides for a significant increase in deterrence and defense capabilities in the coming years, as Russia still poses a serious threat to the military alliance.
The priority development directions identified by NATO are the creation of a combat -capable division, anti -aircraft defense, development of the Land Force Mechanized Infantry Brigade, Against Dyric Protection, and the Development of Allied Forces, LETA found out in the Ministry of Defense (MoD).
The MoD pointed out that the ministry had previously informed the Cabinet of Priority Development identified by the Cabinet of Ministers and conceptually agreed that national defense, NATO’s ability to achieve and security needs, as well as military support for Ukraine, the government plans to move to 5% of GDP.
It has already been reported that Latvia will buy another 42 infantry combat machines « Ascod » for one additional battalion for arming. It will cost the National Armed Forces (NAF) EUR 387 million.
In January this year, the MoD signed an agreement with the Spanish company « Gdels-Santa Bárbara’s system » for the supply of 42 infantry combat machines ASCOD in the NAF, providing the local industry at least 30% in order. This order will cost € 373 million.
The first battle machines are expected to be delivered from the first order in 2026. The first battle machines from the second -order armed forces will start receiving in 2027.
