Transfer of command authority for NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia

A formal ceremony was held to mark the Transfer of Command Authority of NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia from Colonel (OF-5) Kristopher Reeves to Colonel (OF-5) Dave Brassard on Wednesday, June 10th, 2026, at the Ādaži Military Base. 

This transfer of command authority was the second for NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia. The ceremony underscored NATO Allies’ steadfast commitment to collective defence and regional security, while marking the continuity of leadership within the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia. Through continued multinational cooperation with the Latvian National Armed Forces, MNB LVA remains ready to, if necessary, defend Latvian and NATO territory. 

Presiding over the event was Commander of the Multinational Division North, Major General Ulrich Essemann-Beck, alongside distinguished guests including The Minister of Defence of the Republic of Latvia, Raivis Melnis, and the Deputy Minister of National Defence of Canada, Christiane Fox. 

“Over the past year, this brigade has proven what it means to operate as a truly multinational force: professional, integrated, and prepared alongside our Latvian partners. The work done by our soldiers and staff across every contributing nation has built a strong formation that is united in purpose, and this Transfer of Command Authority reflects that continuity. Above all, the brigade remains ready to build on that foundation of cohesion and capability moving forward.” said Colonel Kristopher Reeves, Outgoing Commander Multinational Brigade Latvia
“It is a great honour to take command of Multinational Brigade Latvia at a time when the strength of this formation is clearly visible. I am excited to build on the work of those who came before, and we will continue to deepen our integration with Latvian and Allied forces. Our focus moving forward is to maintain that momentum, ensuring the brigade remains cohesive, professional, and fully prepared to contribute to the defence of Latvia and the Alliance." said  Colonel David Brassard, Incoming Commander Multinational Brigade Latvia
 

Quick facts:

• As NATO strengthens its Eastern flank, MNB-LVA plays a vital role in the collective defence of the Baltic region. Regular exercises with Allied forces reinforce our shared commitment to regional security and enhance our collective readiness. 

• Multinational Brigade Latvia (MNB-LVA) is comprised of 14 NATO members: Albania, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. 

• MNB-LVA is the most multinational brigade of the Alliance. Featuring 14 NATO Allies within a single brigade, it brings the capabilities of 14 nations to Latvia to bolster its defences and to secure NATO’s Eastern flank. 

• As NATO continues to reinforce its Eastern flank, MNB-LVA proudly plays a pivotal role in the collective defence of the Baltic region.  
   

  Contacts:
  Public Affairs Office, NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia Headquarters
  Email: MNB-LVA-PublicAffairs@forces.gc.ca 
  Tel: +371 22 011 174