NATO maneuvers display unity against Eastern threats
On the Latvian training ground in Ādaži, large-scale NATO exercises under the codename "Resolute Warrior" are underway, involving 3,500 soldiers from 13 Alliance countries. Over 1,000 tanks and military vehicles, alongside helicopters, drones, and artillery, form an impressive force aimed at strengthening NATO's eastern flank's defensive capabilities.
9:01 AM EST, November 14, 2024
The "Resolute Warrior" maneuvers are not only a demonstration of strength but, above all, a test of the cooperation abilities of a multinational brigade under the command of Canadian Colonel Cedric Aspirault. The exercises focus on integrating diverse forces and military equipment to effectively protect Latvia and other countries in the region from potential threats from Russia, although the name of the potential aggressor is rarely mentioned.
An impressive array of military equipment has appeared on the Ādaži training ground, including Canadian, Danish, and Spanish Leopard tanks, Italian Ariete, Polish PT-91 Twardy, Spanish Pizarro infantry fighting vehicles, and Slovenian Peruns. Italian Centauro tank destroyers and Canadian CH-146 Griffon helicopters are also participating in the exercises.
"They show what capabilities we have for joint action and how quickly we can respond," emphasized Colonel Cedric Aspirault in an interview with the Polish Press Agency. "They show our capabilities for joint action and quick reaction." He also noted that one of the biggest challenges is the logistics involved in coordinating 13 countries and diverse equipment. A way to mitigate this challenge is to ensure that we speak the same language—I mean NATO language—so that we understand the same orders and planning processes," he added.
Maneuvers in Latvia. Russia watches
The Commander of the Multinational Division North, Danish General Jette Albinus, emphasized the importance of maneuvers for integrating Alliance forces. "We are practicing our deterrence and defense capabilities for Latvia," she told PAP. When asked whether the Russians are observing the progress of the exercises, she answered briefly: "We know they are."
Latvian authorities highlight the strategic importance of the "Resolute Warrior" exercises. They indicate that their task is not only deterrence but also showing the Alliance's "unity and strength."
NATO's presence in Latvia dates back to 2017, when a Multinational Battle Group was formed under Canadian leadership. In October this year, its status was elevated to a brigade, which Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs described as a "breakthrough and the largest event for building NATO's collective defense in a generation."
The brigade, consisting of military personnel from 13 countries, is permanently stationed in Latvia and comprises 3,000 soldiers. Its expansion is planned to be completed by 2026.
