“At a time when the world is facing various geopolitical challenges, we greatly appreciate the US contribution to strengthening Latvia’s security. The anti-ship missile system will be a new capability of the National Armed Forces and an important part of Latvia’s defense system. It will ensure the protection of Latvia’s coast, the safety of waterways and, if necessary, will be included in the common defense system of the Alliance,” says Minister of Defense Andris Sprūds.
We have concluded a contract for the purchase of anti-ship missile systems “Naval Strike Missile”. They are the most advanced systems of their kind in the world. Thanks to their purchase, we will significantly strengthen the protection of the coast of Latvia. The total amount of the contract is 105 million dollars. Significant financial support… pic.twitter.com/lNxQOxw7lF
— Andris Spruds (@AndrisSpruds) December 8, 2023
“This day marks an important milestone in the long-standing security cooperation between the United States and Latvia. Russia’s brutal, aggressive war against Ukraine has demonstrated that democratic nations must unite to defend our sovereignty, values, and freedom. The United States is proud to support Latvia’s defense capability in the making,” US Ambassador Christopher Robinson notes.
The total amount of the contract is 105 million US dollars. Significant financial support for the purchase of anti-ship missile systems is provided by the USA, covering 70% of the total contract amount, while Latvia covers 30%.
“Naval Strike Missile” is an anti-ship missile system capable of affecting both sea and land targets at a distance of up to 185 kilometers. This missile system is used by NATO members such as the USA, Poland, Germany, Norway, Romania, Great Britain, Canada and the Netherlands.
It is planned that the delivery of the Naval Strike Missile anti-ship missile system will begin in 2027.
It has already been reported that in April 2022, the Saeima supported the amendments to the Defense Financing Law, which envisages gradually increasing funding for national defense up to 2.5% of the gross domestic product forecast for the relevant year by 2025. On the other hand, in the missile program of the National Armed Forces, the capabilities to be developed as a priority were outlined – anti-ship missile systems, medium-range air defense and missile artillery. The additional funding provided accelerates the deployment of the National Armed Forces’ critical capabilities approximately five years earlier than previously planned.
2023-12-08 12:48:03
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