Latvian Armed Forces to Carry Out Controlled Explosions in Rugāji to Neutralize Downed Drone

This evening, controlled explosions are planned in Rugāji Parish as part of the National Armed Forces' efforts to neutralize a downed unmanned aerial vehicle. The blast may be audible to residents living in and around the parish. According to the military, the noise will come from planned, supervised demolition work, and additional precautionary measures are not required.

The operation will be carried out by specialists from the National Armed Forces' Unexploded Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, following established safety regulations and procedures.

Earlier, on August 14 at 4 a.m., a possible threat to Latvian airspace was declared for five municipalities: Augšdaugava, Preiļi, Rēzekne, Balvi and Alūksne. In response, NATO fighter jets conducting the Baltic Air Policing mission were activated. Over Rugāji, in Balvi Municipality, allied aircraft successfully shot down a foreign drone that had entered Latvia's airspace as a result of Russian electronic warfare.

The airspace threat was lifted at 4.50 a.m. in all five municipalities. The National Armed Forces continue to monitor Latvian airspace and say they are ready to react immediately in cooperation with NATO allies should any new threats emerge.