Latvia and Canada Formalize Enhanced Military Procurement Cooperation

New Agreement Signed in Rīga

Latvia and Canada have officially strengthened their defense ties with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on military procurement cooperation. The agreement was formalized on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the Ministry of Defence in Rīga, Latvia.

The MOU was signed by State Secretary Aivars Puriņš on behalf of Latvia and Antony Rizk of the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC), Canada's procurement agency, representing Canada. Latvian Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds was also present at the signing ceremony.

Scope of Cooperation

The newly signed memorandum outlines a framework for enhanced collaboration across several critical areas within the defense sector. It specifically envisages cooperation in:

• Military equipment
• Infrastructure development
• Services procurement

This agreement is designed to establish a foundation for the development of future joint projects between the two nations.

Official Statements Highlight Strategic Importance

Latvian Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds emphasized the significance of the agreement, stating, 'This memorandum of understanding forms a structured basis for closer cooperation with Canadian partners in the field of military industry. It allows for targeted development of cooperation, while maintaining flexibility and the priority of national interests in the assessment of each specific project.'

The Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) plays a vital role in this partnership, supporting foreign governments in the acquisition of Canadian-made military equipment and defense-related solutions.

Broader Context of Latvia-Canada Defense Partnership

This MOU further solidifies the robust defense relationship between Latvia and Canada, particularly within the framework of NATO. Canada leads the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia under Operation REASSURANCE, which represents Canada's largest overseas military deployment. Canada has committed to increasing its military presence in Latvia to up to 2,200 troops by 2026.

Recent Canadian investments and procurements to support its forces in Latvia include:

• $236 million for infrastructure development in Latvia under Operation REASSURANCE.
• A $35.8 million contract for 90 Light Tactical Vehicles (LTVs), announced in July 2024.
• Investments totaling $227.5 million for RBS 70 NG short-range air defense systems and $46 million for counter-drone equipment, announced in February 2024.

A roadmap for scaling the enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group to a brigade level was signed in July 2023, underscoring the long-term commitment to strengthening NATO's eastern flank. Canada has historically been a strong supporter of Latvia, being the first G7 country to recognize its independence in 1991 and the first to ratify its accession to NATO in 2004.