“The presence of Turkish fighter jets in Latvia is a tangible demonstration of NATO’s readiness to protect our airspace and respond to any threat,” Defence Minister Raivis Melnis said. “In the current security environment, it is essential that Allied capabilities in the region are not only visible, but also ready for immediate deployment.”
“The presence of Allied forces strengthens the security of Latvia and NATO’s entire eastern flank, while sending a clear message of the Alliance’s unity and the strength of our collective defence,” Melnis said. His remarks placed the Turkish visit within Latvia’s wider focus on regional security and NATO deterrence.
The event was also attended by Türkiye’s ambassador to Latvia, Ahmet Cemil Miroğlu. Colonel Gunārs Kauliņš, deputy chief of the National Armed Forces Joint Headquarters for operations, joined the minister, ambassador and other invited guests.
Italy formally assumed responsibility for the latest Baltic Air Policing rotation at Šiauliai Air Base in Lithuania on 31 July. The Italian contingent replaced French and Romanian forces and is supported by Turkish aircraft operating from Ämari in Estonia.
