Sweden deploys mechanised battalion in Latvia for the first time
The Swedish Armed Forces have deployed a mechanised battalion for the first time to NATO's land operation in Latvia. The 600-strong battalion arrived in Riga on 18 January 2025 and will be deployed as part of NATO's permanent force at Adazi, alongside units from 14 other member states.
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Armoured vehicles, including Strf9040 infantry fighting vehicles, Strv 122 tanks, as well as trucks, armoured vehicles and other equipment, were delivered along with the troops.
The battalion is part of the Swedish Army's South Scandinavian Armoured Regiment, which includes the 71st and 72nd Mechanised Battalions with a total strength of around 1,100 soldiers. If necessary, the unit in Latvia can be reinforced with an additional 200 troops.
This deployment is the first such experience of Swedish troops in Europe since the Kosovo mission. Sweden has previously participated in peacekeeping operations in Mali and Afghanistan. According to Markus Nilsson, Head of Communications at the South Scandinavian Regiment, the mission in Latvia is different, as the main goal is to deter aggression and prevent war.
The plans to deploy the battalion were first announced in January 2024, when Sweden was not yet a NATO member. The country officially joined the Alliance in March 2024, becoming its 32nd member. This step was historic for Sweden, which had been neutral for more than 200 years. The change in security policy was triggered by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which forced the country to reconsider its strategic priorities.
Source: SVT
