1277 Young People to Start National Defense Service in Latvia; First Time Includes Military Police

According to the National Armed Forces (NBS), 1277 young people are scheduled to start their national defense service on July 17, 2026. Of these, 1225 will serve 11 months, while 52 have chosen a five-year program in the National Guard.

Most have volunteered, but approximately 60 will serve through conscription. The 11-month service will take place in six units: the Mechanized Infantry Brigade in Ādaži, the Military Police in Ādaži, the Air Force Air Defense Division in Lielvārde, the 25th Combat Support Battalion in Alūksne, the 36th Combat Support Battalion in Lūznava, and the 4th Kurzeme Brigade's 'Mežaine' base.

This draft notably includes firsts: 70 conscripts will serve in the Military Police, and 197 at the 'Mežaine' base—including four women. At 'Mežaine', 173 volunteered and 24 were randomly selected. In Ādaži, 717 soldiers will start, with 647 in the Mechanized Infantry Brigade and 70 in the Military Police.

The Air Force will receive 100 volunteers, who after basic training will continue in the Air Defense Division and Training Center. The 36th battalion in Lūznava will see 111 soldiers (six women), with 89 volunteers and 22 conscripts. In Alūksne, 100 soldiers (five women) will start, including 84 volunteers and 16 conscripts.

For the five-year National Guard program, 52 volunteers will serve, mainly in the 53rd battalion of the 1st Riga Brigade. This program requires at least 28 days of service per year and includes basic training, collective training, and qualification courses.

During service, soldiers learn basic military skills, improve physical fitness, develop leadership and teamwork, and gain knowledge in national defense. After basic training, they continue in their chosen specialty. Upon completion, they may join professional service or become reserve members, periodically refreshing their skills.

The NBS noted that the number of recruits may change due to appeals or other factors.