In a significant demonstration of NATO’s commitment to collective defence, the Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia (MNB-LVA) recently concluded its inaugural large-scale field training exercise. Known as Exercise RESOLUTE WARRIOR 2024, the event took place from November 1 to 14 across central and northern Latvia, showcasing the cohesion and readiness of the newly formed multinational brigade. 

“In NATO’s 75th year, we are reminded just how important this alliance is for Canada and its allies, as Russia continues its war against Ukraine. The completion of Exercise RESOLUTE WARRIOR 2024 is an important milestone in the significant expansion of Canada’s military commitment to NATO’s eastern flank. The Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia stands as a testament to Canada’s unwavering commitment to the Alliance,” stated the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence.

The MNB-LVA, composed of personnel from 13 NATO member countries, exemplifies Canada’s leadership within the Alliance. As the framework nation, Canada provides the largest share of personnel and equipment, including the Brigade Commander role. This effort reflects the country’s deep commitment to NATO’s deterrence and defence objectives, particularly in Eastern Europe. 

“Exercise RESOLUTE WARRIOR 2024 is the culmination of months of dedicated effort. As the inaugural brigade exercise hosted by the Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia, its success will lay the foundation for all subsequent training endeavours. The exercise stresses the importance the Canadian Armed Forces place on combat interoperability with our NATO Allies, while showing our united resolve toward peace and security in the region,” expressed Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command.

Canada’s contributions are part of Operation REASSURANCE, the Canadian Armed Forces’ (CAF) largest international mission. Designed to bolster NATO’s presence in Central and Eastern Europe, this operation represents the most extensive reinforcement of collective defence since the Cold War. Through this initiative, Canada has underscored its resolve to ensure the security of Allied territory. 

“Exercise RESOLUTE WARRIOR 2024 demonstrates our collective efforts and our commitment to strengthening the security of Latvia and NATO borders. Each of the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia contributing nations brings a wealth of experience and expertise that is invaluable to NATO’s defence and deterrence mandate. We are part of an active build-up with a level of multinational cooperation never seen before. This exercise has one clear message on behalf of the Brigade: We’re ready,” expressed Colonel Cédric Aspirault, Commander NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia.

The success of Exercise RESOLUTE WARRIOR 2024 marks a major milestone for the MNB-LVA, the first brigade-level training exercise led by Canada in Europe in over three decades. More than just a military drill, the exercise demonstrated Canada’s dedication to enhancing NATO’s operational readiness and defence capabilities. 

Looking ahead, the Canadian Armed Forces are poised to strengthen their role in Latvia. By 2026, Canada will have completed its full brigade commitments under Operation REASSURANCE, deploying up to 2,200 CAF members along with enhanced equipment and infrastructure to support NATO operations. 

Canada’s expanded military presence in Latvia began in response to Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. In the wake of the invasion, Canada rapidly increased its contributions, doubling its military personnel, deploying over 1,000 additional vehicles, and acquiring advanced capabilities to bolster NATO’s defences on its eastern flank. These efforts have transformed Latvia into a critical hub for NATO’s deterrence and defence strategy. 

As Exercise RESOLUTE WARRIOR 2024 concludes, it underscores Canada’s pivotal role in safeguarding NATO territory while reinforcing the enduring importance of unity among Alliance members in the face of evolving global threats.