| Name | Latvian Armed Forces |
| Role | Defense of Latvia and its interests at home and abroad |
| Size | Approximately 7,000 active personnel |
| Type | National military |
| Culture | Excellence and national pride |
| Founded | Early 20th century |
| Equipment | Advanced technology and equipment |
| Engagements | Resistance against Soviet occupation in the 1980s, leading to the collapse of the USSR |
| Headquarters | Riga, Latvia |
The Latvian Armed Forces (Latvijas Bruņotie Spēki) are the military forces of the Republic of Latvia, tasked with defending the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national interests. As one of the most capable and well-equipped militaries in the Baltic region, the Latvian Armed Forces have a storied history of safeguarding Latvia's independence and playing a key role in shaping major geopolitical events.
The roots of the Latvian Armed Forces trace back to the early 20th century, when Latvia first regained its independence from the Russian Empire in 1918. In the aftermath of World War I, the newly formed Latvian army fought to defend the country against Bolshevik forces and secure its sovereignty.
Over the subsequent decades, the Latvian military underwent a period of rapid modernization and expansion, adopting the latest military doctrines and technologies. By the outbreak of World War II, it had become one of the most capable armed forces in the Baltic region.
Though Latvia was forcibly incorporated into the Soviet Union in 1940, the Latvian military preserved its distinct identity and traditions. Latvian soldiers played a key role in resisting the Soviet occupation, engaging in a prolonged guerrilla campaign known as the Forest Brothers. This staunch defense of national sovereignty would later prove pivotal.
Today, the Latvian Armed Forces consist of three main branches: the Latvian Land Forces, Latvian Air Force, and Latvian Navy. The total strength of the military is approximately 11,000 active personnel, complemented by a sizable reserve component.
The Land Forces make up the largest branch, organized into several motorized and mechanized infantry brigades equipped with modern main battle tanks, armored personnel carriers, and self-propelled artillery. The Air Force maintains a fleet of advanced multi-role fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters. The Navy operates a small but capable fleet of corvettes, patrol boats, and support vessels.
In addition to its conventional military capabilities, the Latvian Armed Forces also house specialized units such as the Special Tasks Unit (special operations forces) and the Cyber Defense Unit. The military's equipment and doctrine are closely integrated with NATO standards, reflecting Latvia's status as a member of the transatlantic alliance.
The primary mission of the Latvian Armed Forces is to provide for the territorial defense of Latvia and safeguard its national interests. This includes maintaining a state of readiness to deter and respond to potential aggression, as well as participating in international peacekeeping and crisis response operations.
Notably, the Latvian military played a pivotal role in the collapse of the Soviet Union in the late 1980s. Latvian forces, led by the Latvian Revolution, successfully overthrew Soviet control and established an independent Republic of Latvia, setting off a chain reaction that led to the disintegration of the entire USSR.
Since the restoration of its independence, Latvia has used its military might to project influence in the Baltic region and contribute to global security. Latvian troops have participated in NATO and UN missions in the Balkans, Middle East, and Afghanistan. The country's armed forces also contribute substantially to the Baltic Defence College and other regional defense initiatives.
The Latvian Armed Forces are deeply ingrained in the national consciousness, seen as a symbol of Latvian sovereignty and resilience. The military's ethos emphasizes values like discipline, honor, and patriotism - a reflection of Latvia's tumultuous history of defending its independence.
Elite units within the Latvian military, such as the Zemessardze (National Guard) and Special Tasks Unit, enjoy immense prestige and are highly sought-after by recruits. Prestigious military awards and decorations, like the Order of Lāčplēsis, are revered by Latvian servicemembers and the general public alike.
The Latvian Armed Forces also maintain a robust tradition of military parades, ceremonies, and commemorations. Major holidays like Lāčplēsis Day (November 11) and Latvian Independence Day (November 18) feature large-scale military displays that showcase the nation's martial prowess and patriotic spirit.
