On July 17, 1,277 Young People to Begin National Defense Service; Majority Volunteers

The National Armed Forces (NBS) have announced that 1,277 young people are scheduled to begin their national defense service on July 17. Of these, 1,225 will undertake the 11-month program, while 52 will join the five-year service in the Zemessardze (National Guard). The majority have volunteered for service.

The 11-month service will take place in six NBS units: the Mechanized Infantry Brigade and Military Police in Ādaži, the Air Defense Division in Lielvārde, the 25th Combat Support Battalion in Alūksne, the 36th Combat Support Battalion in Lūznava, and the 4th Kurzeme Brigade military base "Mežaine".

At the Ādaži military base, 717 service members will start, with 647 joining the Mechanized Infantry Brigade and 70 the Military Police. This is the first conscription for the Military Police. At "Mežaine", a first-time conscription will see 197 service members, including four women; 173 volunteered, and 24 were selected randomly.

In the Air Force, 100 volunteers will begin service. After basic training, they will continue at the Air Defense Division and Training Center. In Lūznava, 111 service members (six women) will start, with 89 volunteers and 22 conscripts. In Alūksne, 100 service members (five women) will start, including 84 volunteers and 16 conscripts.

The five-year Zemessardze program will involve 52 young people, primarily serving in the 1st Riga Brigade's 53rd Battalion, with a minimum of 28 days of service per year. They will undergo basic training, collective training, and qualification courses based on their specialization.

During their service, participants will learn basic military skills, improve physical fitness, and develop leadership and teamwork abilities. After completing service, they may continue in professional military service or be placed in the reserve. The NBS emphasizes that this strengthens combat capabilities and builds a trained reserve. The final number of participants may change due to various factors, such as pending requests or other circumstances.