March 26, 2026 – Ādaži Military Base, Latvia – NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia Headquarters

NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia concluded Operation PĒRKONS STRIKE, a multinational air assault exercise, on March 24, 2026, demonstrating the Brigade’s ability to rapidly project NATO forces by air in Latvia.

Operation PĒRKONS STRIKE aimed to demonstrate NATO readiness through precise planning, coordination with Latvian authorities, and safely execute a multinational air assault. The United States 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, the Latvian Armed Forces, and Latvian National Guard were vital to the mission’s success and provide the assurance that NATO is credible and capable of defending Latvian territory.

The operation included the tactical movement of a ground force by air from Lielvarde Air Base to Lociki Airfield, a simulated attack to repel of an enemy force, and a redeployment. It validated multinational command and control and interoperability in a realistic operational environment. All activities were defensive, transparent and aligned with host nation priorities, reinforcing trust and assurance with local authorities.

Training activities were conducted in close coordination with Latvian civil authorities. The NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia extends its sincere thanks to its defence partners, including the United States Army and the Latvian National Armed Forces, for their professionalism and cooperation. The brigade also thanks the residents and the municipality of Daugavpils for their support in allowing allied forces to conduct training activities in their community.

Building on this success, the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia will turn its focus to Mission Rehearsal Activity SPRING WARRIOR in May 2026, a brigade level deployment across the entire geography of Latvia that will further reinforce assurance and NATO’s collective commitment to the defence of the host nation.

Quote:

“The success of Operation PĒRKONS STRIKE reflects the professionalism of our soldiers and aircrews, as well as the strengths of our multinational defence partners. Training together in this way provides clear assurance that we can integrate effectively and project forces quickly and safely when required.”

-    Maj. Louis Sebastien Morose, Commander Tactical Aviation Detachment.

Contacts: 
Public Affairs Office, NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia Headquarters 
Email: MNB-LVA-PublicAffairs@forces.gc.ca  
Tel: +371 22 832 494