Latvia buys anti-ship missile systems from the United States
Kyiv • UNN
The US has approved the sale of naval missile systems to Latvia worth $105 million, with the US covering 70% of the costs. It is planned that the delivery of the Naval Strike Missile anti-ship missile system will be launched in 2027.
Today. On December 8, the United States approved the sale of Naval Strike Missile systems manufactured by the American company Raytheon and the Norwegian company Kongsberg to Latvia . This was reported by the Ministry of Defense of Latvia, according to UNN.
Details
Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprides expressed gratitude to the United States for its significant contribution to Latvia's defense capabilities.
The anti-ship missile system will become a new tool of the national armed forces and an important part of the Latvian defense system. It will ensure the protection of the Latvian coast, the security of the fairways and, if necessary, integrate into the Alliance's common defense system
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At the same time, the US ambassador said that this agreement is an important stage of long-term security cooperation between Washington and Latvia. According to him, Russia's war against Ukraine has shown the world that democracies must unite to defend their sovereignty and freedom.
Addendum
The total contract amount is $105 million. Significant financial support for the purchase of anti-ship missile systems is provided by the United States, covering 70% of the total contract amount, while Latvia covers 30%.
It is planned that the delivery of the Naval Strike Missile system will be launched in 2027.
For reference
The Naval Strike Missile (NSM) is a subsonic anti-ship missile capable of engaging surface and ground targets. The missile is 4 meters long and weighs 410 kg and is equipped with a modern target recognition system. The maximum launch range is over 185 km and the weight of the high explosive warhead is 120 kg.
To recap,
the United States and Ukraine are stepping up defense cooperation, planning joint production of weapons, including air defense systems and ammunition, which aims to strengthen Ukraine's long-term self-sufficiency and defense capabilities
READ MORE: Latvia to provide additional military assistance to Ukraine
