Defense accounts for 10.3% of budget spending next year, or €1.56 billion. Thus, 3.5% of gross domestic product will be spent on defense next year, and 3.7% of gross domestic product in the following two years. Defense spending also includes measures related to the internal security of the country, such as the technical equipment of the external border and the strengthening of cyber-security.
Around 80% of the sector's budget will be used for the National Armed Forces (NBS) in line with its development plan until 2036.
The priority use of the budget will be for the development of the capabilities of the Armed Forces and the involvement of human resources.
"Last year 300 young people were enlisted in the State Defence Service, this year 600, and next year 1040 are planned. We are aiming for 4,000 young people in 2028. This requires more money to be allocated to human resources development. We have a plan to have 31,000 people in the armed forces in 2028. The introduction of national defense training also requires resources for the Youth Guard Center, so that this program can be implemented qualitatively," explained Defense Minister Andris Sprūds (Progressives).
One of the reasons why the defense budget was also discussed in Saeima's National Economy Committee was the involvement of local industry. This is enshrined in the Defense Industry Law, and an innovation strategy is being developed, with plans to expand the production of armored vehicles, drones and other equipment in Latvia in the coming years, as well as in equipping the eastern border.
The establishment of the Sēlija training ground, which is included in the Ministry's list of priorities, is also linked to local entrepreneurship. It is in full swing and will be an important venue for international military exercises, said Uģis Norītis, Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Defense:
"A fundamental project, the largest in the Baltic States and Northern Europe. The first phase should be completed by the end of next year. We have applied for NATO co-financing. The base is being built, the personnel is being recruited, the landing sites are being developed, the firing ranges, the unexploded ordnance area, and the helipad are being built. Also the development of an adversary base to make the exercise as powerful as possible under realistic conditions."
The defense budget for next year and 2026 also foresees around €100 million to provide military support to Ukraine.
The defense budget is also due to be examined in more detail in the new week by the Saeima's Committee on Defence, Home Affairs and Corruption.
