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The multinational brigade in Lettland, LNLV

Sweden’s participation in Latvia is part of NATO’s enhanced forward presence in Eastern Europe.

Markus Niwsjö är kompanichef för det 715:e kompaniet och deltog i övningen Hedgehog i Estland.

Photo: Axel Öberg/Försvarsmakten

The Swedish battalion (the 71st) has been part of a multinational brigade comprising a total of 14 nations. The Swedish contingent has consisted of a reduced armoured battalion with tanks, CV90 infantry fighting vehicles, Patria AMV 360 armoured vehicles, and armoured mortar carriers.

The mission in Latvia differs from previous international operations, where the focus was on creating security for the civilian population through patrols and operations. The current task is to train for high-intensity armed combat together with allied forces in a realistic threat environment against a state actor, in order to deter Russian aggression and strengthen readiness for Sweden and for our allies.

The 71st Battalion is now back on Swedish soil until the end of the year, when the battalion will rotate back to Latvia. Training and preparation for new personnel has already begun.