Latvia Takes Bold Steps to Enhance National Security with Record Defence Budget and NATO Collaboration
Latvia’s Strategic Defence Enhancement
Latvia’s Parliament has approved a substantial defence budget for 2025, allocating €1.559 billion, equivalent to 3.45% of the gross domestic product, for strengthening national defence.
A significant portion of this budget – almost €100 million – will be directed towards infrastructure development, including the completion of the first phase of the Selonia Military Training Area, which is set to become the largest military training facility in the Baltic and Nordic region.
Strategic Military Developments
The 2025 defence budget allocation breaks down as follows: 42% for military capabilities development, 26% for personnel costs, another 26% for maintenance costs, and 6% for military infrastructure. Key projects include implementing a layered air defence system, acquiring coastal defence missiles, and procuring infantry fighting vehicles, artillery, ammunition and equipment.
NATO Collaboration and Regional Security
In a significant development, Latvia will host NATO’s highest Military Authority meeting in September 2025, with the Military Committee convening at the Chiefs of Defence level in Riga. The meeting will be presided over by Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, with attendance from key NATO military leaders.
Given the current geopolitical situation in Europe, Latvia maintains its commitment to supporting Ukraine, allocating 0.25% of GDP for Ukrainian assistance in 2025. This support includes military equipment delivery, training for Ukrainian soldiers, and development of an international drone coalition.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the Latvian government has made a bold commitment to further increase its defence spending, with plans to allocate at least 4% of GDP to defence next year, and targeting 5% of GDP in subsequent years. These investments are expected to yield significant public benefits, including enhanced national security, improved military training opportunities for citizens, and strengthened capabilities to address various threats.
