Latvia to Spend Big on Air Defense

Sputnik News

08:58 24.03.2015

Latvia is all set to develop its existing system of identifying security threats, including those posed by ballistic missiles.

In July 2014 the Latvian government approved allocating extra 158 million euros for the improvement of the country's air-surveillance and anti-aircraft capabilities.

The government accepted Ministry of Defense proposals for the purchase of a new air surveillance radar, individual anti-aircraft defense systems and weapons.

Plans are also apace to upgrade the current air-defense potential, advance the military's tactical intelligence gathering capabilities and launch a network of personnel training courses.

The former Soviet Baltic republic will also continue to increase its defense budget to meet the 2 percent of GDP level agreed upon by each NATO member state.

Latvia joined the western defense alliance in 2004.

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