The Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade - Latvia conducted a Transfer of Command Authority today at Ādaži Military Base, Latvia, as Colonel Kristopher Reeves formally transferred command to Colonel David Brassard.
Colonel Brassard is the third Canadian to take command following the full standup of NATO Multinational Brigade - Latvia in 2024. This continuity of Canadian leadership underscores Canada's enduring commitment to NATO's collective defence and deterrence posture on the Alliance's eastern flank.
Under Colonel Reeves' leadership, the Brigade continued to grow into a modern, capable, and highly integrated multinational formation composed of personnel from fourteen NATO nations. Over the past year, the Brigade has strengthened its interoperability, increased its readiness, and enhanced its operational expertise among Allies and partner nations.
To support the expanded Brigade footprint, in coordination with the Latvian Government and NATO, Canada has made significant investments in infrastructure and military capabilities across Latvia over the last two years. These efforts have included the establishment of Camp Labrie within the Ceri Military Base complex south of Riga, which offers additional accommodations and logistics support for deployed personnel in Latvia.
Canadian investments in Lielvārde Air Base, located southeast of Riga in central Latvia, including a recent groundbreaking on over 60 million euros (more than $95 million CAD) worth of infrastructure projects, have strengthened the Brigade's ability to deploy and sustain forces across the region.
The Brigade's continued development reflects Canada's broader commitment to strengthen defence capabilities and increase investments in security at home and abroad, including the procurement and delivery of equipment such as the Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles and the Saab RBS 70 NG anti-air system. As Canada continues to increase investments in defence, the expansion and modernization of its military presence in Latvia remains a key component of this commitment to Euro-Atlantic security.
As Colonel Brassard assumes command of NATO Multinational Brigade - Latvia, Canadians will continue to lead the way in maintaining readiness, deepening cooperation with Latvian and Allied forces, and contributing to NATO's deterrence and defence mission in the Baltic region.
