Military exercise “SPRING STORM 2026” will take place in Northern Latvia

From May 17 to 22, the international military exercise “SPRING STORM 2026” organized by the Estonian Defence Forces will take place on the territory of Northern Latvia, in which units of the National Armed Forces will also participate.

The purpose of the exercise is to practice the allied unit cooperation in large-scale defence operations, as well as to prepare units to receive incoming forces and ensure effective cross-border cooperation in Northern Latvia and Southern Estonia in the simulated conditions of conventional warfare. This year’s training also integrates Ukraine’s experience in planning and executing tactical maneuvers and integrating unmanned aerial vehicles into combat.

“Spring Storm 2026” is taking place from May 4 to June 1, primarily in Põlva, Tartu, Valga, Viljandi and Võru counties, as well as in northeastern Latvia. Conducting part of the exercise in northeastern Latvia enables strengthening cross-border military cooperation and practicing operations in the border region. Units from Estonia, France, Latvia and the United Kingdom will participate in the training activities held on Latvian territory.

The military exercise “SPRING STORM 2026” is the largest annual exercise of the Estonian Defence Forces, it involves more than 12,000 soldiers from 16 NATO member states with various types of armoured vehicles.

For your awareness!

During the exercise, there will be increased movement of military vehicles and personnel across Northern Latvia, including public and forest roads. 
During the activities, noise and smoke imitations will be used, which create sound, but do not threaten people’s life and health.

Thank you for your support in strengthening Latvia’s defence!
 

Prepared by:
Communications Department,
Information Analysis and Management Directorate,
Joint Headquarters of the National Armed Forces
E-mail: prese@mil.lv