The commander of the NBS stated that new infrastructure was “absolutely necessary.” He said: “Specifically for the soldiers to be recruited by the State Defense Service, because the existing infrastructure is intended for the number that was until now. This requires more intensive construction and financial means.”
Consequently, the construction of two new barracks is planned soon, said Kalniņš.
“In the near future, construction will be underway to establish the necessary barracks at the Ādaži military base, I hope that also the canteen will be expanded, which will be needed as the number of soldiers grows. It will be a standard barracks for 450 soldiers, and at least two are needed there,” the commander of the NBS said.
Construction costs of the new barracks were not commented on specifically. Kalniņš indicated that costs increased by 5-10% each year and the previous barracks cost around €8-9 million.
Kalniņš said that 315 Latvian citizens had submitted applications for the first voluntary draft of the State Defense Service. Kalniņš encouraged people to continue to apply because part is likely to be sent back because of their state of health.
