Namejs drills bring military exercises and medical evacuation to Riga

Latvia’s Namejs national defence exercise has entered its active phase in Riga, where troops are carrying out military tasks in an urban environment and practising civil protection measures, LSM reports. The exercises were planned in advance, and residents have been urged not to worry.

Some of the exercises are taking place outside military training grounds, including in cities and other populated areas. Residents may therefore see soldiers in combat equipment and military vehicles, and hear noises resembling gunfire.

Iveta Bērziņa, a commander captain and representative of the National Armed Forces Joint Staff, said residents had become increasingly understanding and supportive as the exercises became a regular part of national defence.

Training ammunition and other simulation devices that produce loud noises are being used during the exercises. Bērziņa said the ammunition was intended for training and did not pose a threat to participants or nearby residents.

Latvian and allied troops, National Guard soldiers and military vehicles are currently moving more frequently in Riga and its surroundings. Checkpoints and anti-mobility obstacles have been set up in some locations, while drones and military aircraft are also flying.

On Friday, soldiers practised defending a critical infrastructure facility in Daugavgrīva. A checkpoint will be set up on Salu Bridge during the night into Saturday, which may cause slower traffic and brief restrictions.

A medical evacuation exercise involving a helicopter is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, in Victory Park.