Scale of Resolute Reforger 2026
The NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia started its most extensive force deployment exercises today. The Resolute Reforger 2026 exercises involve 3,000 soldiers and 1,000 units of equipment moving on roads and railways to test the brigade’s ability to move, supply, and guide units at long distances in cooperation with the National Armed Forces. The Latvian army says these drills run from Oct. 26 to Nov. 2. The units will clean up the exercise areas and return to their military bases from Nov. 4 to Nov. 8. I find the sheer volume of logistics involved in moving 1,000 units of equipment across rail and road networks to be the most significant part of this drill. This massive movement of troops and equipment aims to help the Baltic states bulk up their defensive capabilities as security concerns grow in the region.
| Exercise Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Name | Resolute Reforger 2026 |
| Personnel | 3,000 soldiers |
| Equipment | 1,000 units |
| Deployment Dates | Oct. 26 to Nov. 2 |
| Cleanup Period | Nov. 4 to Nov. 8 |
Defensive readiness and security threats
The NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia is a Canadian-led defensive formation that takes center stage in protecting the alliance’s eastern flank. This formation uses operational insights and lessons learned from the war in Ukraine to maintain readiness. Training sites include Canadian CH-146 Griffon military helicopters. NATO officials warn about Russian drone incursions, airspace violations, sabotage, and other hybrid threats. I find the ongoing Russian hybrid threats in the Baltic region and the resulting need for strengthened air defenses to be a grim reality. Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, NATO reinforced the eastern flank by deploying additional troops and preparing a rapid-response plan. Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics told the Kyiv Independent on Sept. 22 that NATO troops stationed on the eastern flank must be ready immediately if Russia moves. "If someone plans something, we are not expecting two weeks’ debate in Brussels," Rinkevics said. He expects a "very, very swift response" from NATO troops stationed in Eastern flank countries. I find the prospect of a two-week debate in Brussels during a real incursion to be a dangerous possibility because NATO must be ready to act without delay.
