The National Armed Forces Participate in Military Exercise “Northern Strike 2025-2” in Michigan

From August 2 to 16, soldiers and National Guard members from the Latvian National Armed Forces are taking part in the military exercise “Northern Strike 2025-2”, held in the state of Michigan, United States.
“Northern Strike” is an annual joint land and air force exercise organized by the Michigan National Guard and aimed at maintaining and improving the combat readiness of units and strengthening cooperation with allied forces when performing tasks in a multinational environment.

Latvia is represented by National Guard troops and soldiers specializing in cybersecurity and electronic warfare, UAV forward observers, joint terminal attack controllers, and joint fire support forward observers from the Land Forces Mechanized Infantry Brigade. Participants also include airfield operations and firefighting specialists from the Air Force, as well as personnel from the Special Operations Command. The Logistics Command is providing support to the Latvian contingent during the exercise.

Along with Latvian soldiers and national guardsmen, more than 7,500 participants from the United States and nine allied countries are participating in the Northern Strike exercise. Latvian soldiers and National Guard members take part in Northern Strike annually, maintaining a strong partnership with the Michigan National Guard. This year’s exercise focuses on integrated all-domain command and control, national security, and defense against unmanned aerial systems. Participants will also enhance their live-fire combat skills with a variety of weapons systems.

The United States is a long-standing strategic partner and ally of Latvia, playing a significant role in strengthening Latvia's defense capabilities. Latvian and U.S. soldiers regularly participate in joint exercises and activities to promote cooperation and interoperability.
This year marks 32 years since Latvia and the United States signed an agreement on cooperation in the State Partnership Program, thereby confirming the partnership between the Latvian and Michigan National Guards. The initial goals of the program were to help Latvia develop its National Armed Forces, especially the National Guard, after regaining independence. In the initial phase of cooperation, the Michigan National Guard contributed by forming the National Guard structure, developing training programs, inviting National Guards to gain experience in military exercises in the United States, and jointly participating in military exercises in Latvia with the Latvian National Guards.

Joint Headquarters of the National Armed Forces 
Information Analysis and Management Department
Communication Division
E-mail: prese@mil.lv 
Telephone: 67071032