Latvian Armed Forces Clarify Details of Two Drone Incidents in Country's Airspace

Latvia's National Armed Forces have released updated information on two drone incidents in the country's airspace on 1 and 3 November. The details cover the likely origin of the aircraft, the response measures taken and the use of the new interceptor drone system, which is designed to intercept and destroy other unmanned aerial vehicles.

The 1 November incident

On Sunday, 1 November, the armed forces detected a drone, and at 18:57 a threat alert was declared in the Krāslava and Ludza municipalities. The forces tracked the drone's flight path and deployed an interceptor drone in response. At 19:16 the drone left Latvian airspace by crossing the border with Russia. Three minutes later, after assessing the situation, the interceptor's self-destruct mechanism was activated. This caused the explosion sound heard by residents. The alert was lifted at 19:30.

Following data analysis and consultations with Ukrainian partners, the military concluded that the aircraft that crossed Latvian airspace was most likely a Russian Geran-type drone. Based on available data, it is not possible to determine whether it carried explosives.

The 3 November incident

Overnight into 3 November, an alert was declared at 00:10 in the Balvi and Ludza municipalities. Two interceptor drones, launched from separate positions, were used to detect and initially identify the aircraft, while fighter jets of NATO's Baltic Air Policing mission were activated. The alert was lifted at 00:35.

Based on its visual features, the drone resembled those used by Ukraine's armed forces, but its type and origin cannot yet be confirmed. It may have crashed in Balvi municipality, where National Guard units are continuing the search. More precise information on its type, origin and possible explosive danger will be available once it is found and analysed.

Defence measures

The interceptor drone system was introduced in the armed forces less than six months ago, and several teams equipped with it are ready to respond. The forces continue to improve technical solutions, personnel training and procedures, and have reinforced air defence near Latvia's eastern border. Residents are asked not to approach suspicious drones, unknown objects or debris, and to call 112 instead.