Sweden Deploys First NATO Battalion to Latvia Amid Rising Tensions

RIGA, Latvia — For the first time, Sweden has deployed a mechanized battalion to Latvia as part of NATO‘s ground operations, marking a significant shift in the Scandinavian nation’s military strategy. The battalion, consisting of 600 troops, arrived in Riga on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, and will join NATO’s permanent forces in the Baltic state.

The deployment includes advanced military equipment such as Strf9040 infantry fighting vehicles, Strv 122 tanks, and armored trucks. The troops are part of the South Scandinavian Armored Regiment, which comprises the 71st and 72nd Mechanized Battalions with a total strength of approximately 1,100 soldiers. They will be stationed at the Ādaži base, alongside units from 14 other NATO member countries.

Marcus Nilsson, head of communications at the South Scandinavian Regiment, emphasized the mission’s purpose: “In previous operations, our mission was to create peace. Here, we are going to a country where there is peace, and we have to prevent war. We are here to deter.”

This deployment marks Sweden’s first major military operation in Europe since its involvement in Kosovo. In recent years, Swedish forces have primarily participated in missions outside Europe, including in Mali and Afghanistan. The move comes after Sweden officially joined NATO in March 2024, becoming the alliance’s 32nd member. This historic decision followed Russia‘s invasion of Ukraine, which prompted Sweden to reassess its long-standing policy of neutrality.

The Swedish Ministry of Defense confirmed the full deployment of troops as part of NATO’s multinational group in Latvia. The regiment’s press service noted that an additional 200 troops could be mobilized if needed, bringing the total deployment to 800 soldiers.

Sweden’s integration into NATO represents a significant geopolitical shift, as the country had maintained neutrality for over 200 years. The deployment underscores NATO’s efforts to bolster its presence in Eastern Europe amid ongoing tensions with Russia.