Poland has sent Leopard 2 tanks to Latvia to reinforce the NATO multinational brigade stationed in the EU and NATO member state. According to dpa, the tanks were delivered by rail to the Adazi military base, where they will replace the previously deployed PT-91 tanks, the Polish version of the Soviet T-72.
The Latvian military command clarified that the exact number of tanks was not disclosed, but their arrival was an important step in strengthening Latvia’s defence capabilities. The NATO multinational brigade stationed in Latvia is led by Canada. The brigade’s commander, Colonel Cedric Aspiro, stressed that the deployment of the Polish Leopard 2PLs significantly enhances the unit’s firepower.
“The arrival of the Leopard 2PL tanks in Latvia is an important step in strengthening our defence capabilities and confirms our determination to defend Latvia, which borders Russia and Belarus,” said Colonel Aspiro. He also added that this message is aimed at strengthening the country’s security, especially in the context of the ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine, which Latvia considers a direct threat to its national security.
The deployment of modern tanks within NATO underscores the enhanced international cooperation in the region and the Alliance’s commitment to ensuring stability and security in the Baltic States.