Slovak Military Group Taking Part in 2017 Summer Shield Exercise in Latvia

Bratislava, April 19 (TASR) – Slovak soldiers operating in the Stefanik military group in Latvia are currently taking part in the 2017 Summer Shield multinational military training exercise, Defence Ministry spokeswoman Danka Capakova told TASR on Wednesday.

The tactical military event, which falls under the NATO exercises, is taking place at the Adazi training area between April 17-30.

In addition to Slovak soldiers, troops from Latvia, USA, Canada, Lithuania, Germany, Denmark, Estonia, Luxembourg, Romania, Bulgaria and Sweden are participating in the military drill – almost 1,700 soldiers in total.

This year’s training event focuses on practising the reconnaissance, anti-tank and artillery capabilities of the units.

Meanwhile, the presence of allied troops in the Baltic region is attracting public attention. As a result, Latvia as a host country has prepared an open house day at the Adazi military base, so that the public can see the machinery used in Latvia.

A total of 149 Slovak soldiers are currently present in Latvia, forming part of Slovakia’s commitment vis-a-vis the decision taken at the NATO summit in Warsaw in 2016.