Denmark to increase military presence in Latvia amid NATO modernization efforts
Denmark is set to send significantly more soldiers to Latvia in the coming years, marking a shift away from missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other distant locations. The new frontline for the Danish military—and NATO’s future—lies in Latvia as a response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. NATO has undertaken modernization efforts, assigning specific tasks to its member nations, positioning Denmark to guard a designated area of NATO’s eastern flank located about thirty minutes from Riga’s capital.
Experts state that, as long as Russia remains a security concern, Denmark will need to contribute to deterrence in this region. Currently, Danes are stationed at ‘Camp Valdemar,’ where an infantry battalion of 800 soldiers operates. Camp Valdemar, once primarily a tent camp, has since developed into a more permanent military installation with proper facilities, including barracks equipped with bunk beds, internet, and maintenance garages for military vehicles.
The Danish deployment to Latvia increased rapidly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The NATO defense strategy now requires forces to be combat-ready within ten days, with each member nation responsible for defending specific geographic areas. This approach reflects a return to Cold War-era military strategies, now with a focus on the Baltic region.
While Danish soldiers will be present in Camp Valdemar for four to six months each year, there are plans for the Swedish military to use the camp while Danish forces are absent. This collaborative arrangement aims to maintain a military presence in Latvia without exhausting Denmark’s resources early in the mission.