On Thursday, 24 September, the Saeima approved the new State Defence Concept. It is a document prepared on the basis of military threat analysis outlining the strategic core principles, priorities and general measures taken for military defence of the state in time of peace, threats, and war.

The Concept has been developed in a time when the society continues to face international security threats and varied non-military threats, including cybersecurity risks, disinformation and propaganda activities, social and economic challenges posed by the pandemic, natural disasters, and other shocks. They have a significant impact not only on public security, health, and welfare, but also on the general stability of the state, as pointed out by the authors of the Concept.

The four main strands set in the State Defence Concept are the National Armed Forces (NAF), comprehensive defence, collective defence within NATO, and international cooperation.

It is emphasised in the Concept that, if defence funding is maintained at the current level, only the most essential capabilities can be increased, so the support of allied countries, including financial support for the development of capabilities, is vital to bridge the gaps.

As pointed out in the Concept, the National Guard and the Youth Guard need to be continuously strengthened, as these bodies provide each citizen with the possibility to prepare for potential threats without abandoning civilian life.

The numerical strength of the NAF also needs to be increased and it must reach 8000 professional soldiers over the period of the Concept. There must be 10 000 guardsmen in the National Guard by 2024 and 12 000 guardsmen by 2027, according to the Concept. Furthermore, the trained military reserve needs to be built up and it is planned that 6000 reserve soldiers, who can potentially be conscripted, are to be trained over the period of the Concept.

It is also indicated that comprehensive national defence can only be ensured with the involvement of the public, so the civic activity of the Latvian population is essential, as well as an increased sense of responsibility of citizens for the processes taking place in the country, including national defence.

The Saeima approves the State Defence Concept at least once during each convocation.

Saeima Press Service