Two AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel radar systems were delivered to Latvia as part of the United States’ European Reassurance Initiative, according to a Tuesday press release by the US Embassy.
The Sentinel radars are used in short-range air defense systems and are able to detect low-flying targets, including helicopters.
“Today we open a new page in the history of improvement of our defense capabilities,” said Latvia’s Chief of Defense Lieutenant General Raimonds Graube at the first delivery ceremony.
The first two radars and support equipment were delivered in June 2016, under a procurement worth over $22m and including four Sentinel radars, HMMWV vehicles, and trailers, as well as operator and maintainer training.
“The Sentinel radars will be connected with Latvia’s existing man-portable air-defense system RBS-70 systems which are used for defense of critical infrastructure, air defense, as well as support for military units in combat,” according to the release.
In line with beefing up its defense budget following Russia’s annexation of Crimea and its ongoing aggression in Eastern Ukraine, Latvia has been boosting its air defense capabilities as well.
In October, Latvia’s Defense Minister signed on the dotted line for buying three Multi-Role TPS-77 radar systems, to be used for monitoring Latvian airspace.