Latvia Closes Eastern Border Airspace Against Drone Threats

Latvia has decided to temporarily close its airspace along the eastern border with Russia and Belarus from September 11 until at least September 18, with the possibility of extension, as a preventive measure in response to recent Russian drone incursions into neighboring Poland's airspace. Defence Minister Andris Sprūds emphasized that this step, taken amid ongoing NATO Baltic Air Patrol missions and Latvia's heightened military alert during exercises, aims to enhance control over unauthorized aerial vehicles, facilitate drone detection and countermeasures, and allow for increased testing of acoustic surveillance systems. The closure also enables rapid decision-making in case of threats and frees up airspace for NATO and Latvian air defense operations. The Latvian National Armed Forces propose this longer airspace closure due to the risk of similar provocations continuing, especially during the concurrent Zapad military exercises conducted by Belarus and Russia. While no direct threat to Latvia currently exists, authorities view the drone incursions as a deliberate attempt by Russia to test NATO's response, highlighting the necessity for joint defensive efforts and coordination among allies. The airspace closure may affect civilian flights and economic activities in border regions but is prioritized for security, with discussions also ongoing about potentially closing land borders and stationing allied fighter jets at Latvian bases.