Latvian defense minister discusses purchase of air defense systems in Israel — Jerusalem Post

Latvian Defense Minister Raivis Melnis discussed the possible purchase of Israeli air defense systems, counter-drone equipment and other defense products during a visit to Israel. According to the Jerusalem Post, the Latvian delegation met with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, Defense Ministry Director General Amir Baram, and representatives of Rafael, Elbit and Israel Aerospace Industries.

Air defense and counter-drone measures

According to Melnis, Latvia is exploring the possibility of purchasing loitering munitions, air defense systems, artillery and radars. Among the systems Riga is considering is Iron Dome. The country is also assessing a broad range of measures to counter ballistic missiles.

The minister said discussions on individual systems had already begun, and Latvia seeks to accelerate decision-making and deliveries. He expressed hope that less than three years would pass from a procurement decision to the delivery of weapons.

According to the publication, Latvia faces the threat of drones entering its territory amid the Russian Federation’s — an aggressor state’s — war against Ukraine. Melnis also said he intends to send additional Latvian military specialists to Israel to study defense solutions.

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Defense and political cooperation

The Latvian minister said Riga wants to draw on Israel’s experience in protecting borders from drones, missiles, proxy forces and cyber threats. The acquisition of artificial intelligence-based cyber defense solutions was not the main purpose of this visit, but Latvian experts are studying additional technologies to strengthen cyber capabilities.

Melnis also stated that the trip had a political dimension and that Latvia supports Israel’s right to self-defense. He condemned Iran’s attacks on Israel and noted that Tehran supports Russia in its war against Ukraine.

According to the Jerusalem Post, citing foreign sources, Latvia had previously purchased Israeli-made Rafael Spike missiles worth approximately €200 million, UT30 turret systems from Elbit, as well as Cellebrite equipment and software.