Defense exercise "Namejs 2026" underway in Cesvaine and across Latvia
A large-scale national defense exercise called "Namejs 2026" has begun in Latvia, including in Cesvaine, involving soldiers and National Guard members from all branches of the National Armed Forces. Allied troops are also taking part.
A comprehensive national defense exercise named "Namejs 2026" has started today in Latvia, with activities taking place in Cesvaine and numerous other locations across the country. The exercise brings together personnel from all branches of the National Armed Forces (NBS).
Who is taking part
Participants include active-duty soldiers and National Guard (Zemessardze) members. The exercise also involves young people serving in the State Defense Service, reserve soldiers, and members of allied armed forces who are either already present in Latvia or have specifically arrived to take part in the training.
Scale of the exercise
The exercise is described as comprehensive, running simultaneously in many places throughout Latvia rather than being limited to a single site such as Cesvaine. This points to a significant deployment of personnel and resources, with coordinated activities happening across several regions at the same time.
"Namejs 2026" forms part of Latvia's annual national defense readiness training, through which NBS units practice their ability to respond and cooperate under various scenarios. The source report does not provide further details on the specific tasks or the exact schedule of the exercise.
