Latvian signs purchase order on procurement of air defense systems worth EUR 600 million

RIGA - On November 30, Latvian Defense Ministry and German company Diehl Defence signed a purchase order on the procurement of the IRIS-T medium-range air defense system, Defense Minister Andris Spruds (Progressives) reported.

By signing the purchase order worth around EUR 600 million, Latvia will receive all the necessary equipment for an effective operation of IRIS-T systems, which will ensure the introduction of layered air defense in Latvia. 

Deliveries of medium-range air defense systems are scheduled to start in 2026. 

Until then Latvia needs to train its personnel and upgrade its infrastructure, as well as fulfil other preconditions, so that the National Armed Forces are ready to fully operate and maintain the IRIS-T systems by the time of the delivery.

As reported, in September Latvia and Estonia signed the framework agreement on the purchase of the IRIS-T medium-range air defense system manufactured by the German company Diehl Defence.

IRIS-T air defense system is capable of destroying enemy aircrafts and drones within a radius of up to 40 kilometers and at altitudes of up to 20 kilometers. The joint procurement of one type of system will allow Latvia and Estonia to save budgetary funds and facilitate mutual coordination in the defense of the Baltic states region.

The purchase of IRIS-T medium-range air defense system will contribute to Latvia's goal to establish a multi-layered air defense system, where air defense systems of various range not only protect other ground assets but also provide mutual protection to each other. Each successive layer increases the overall resilience of the entire system against adversary activity. The development of such air defense capabilities in Latvia is one of the government's priorities.

Recently the US Department of State supported selling HIMARS missile artillery and anti-ship missile systems to Latvia. The overall purchase sum will be about USD 220 million (EUR 193 million).

As reported, the Defense Ministry has three missile system projects. These are coastal defense against ships, medium range air defense systems and missile artillery.