Canada’s military operations command is conducting a study on the sustainability of Canada’s NATO deployment in Latvia for the future, with the possibility of establishing more permanent bases being considered, according to a senior commander, Lt.-Gen. Steve Boivin. The analysis is in its early stages, and no recommendations have been presented to the chief of the defence staff or the federal government yet.
Last August, Prime Minister Mark Carney extended the Canadian mission in Latvia until 2029. Currently, Canada maintains a nearly permanent rotational presence in Latvia, with around 2,200 soldiers serving tours lasting from six to nine months based on their unit assignment.
Boivin emphasized that the review is being approached from a military perspective, considering factors such as the overall troop shortage in the military and the challenges associated with rapidly deploying reinforcements in emergency situations. The possibility of permanently stationing personnel is being explored to ensure the sustainability of the operation.
The last time Canada had a permanent military presence in Europe was post-World War II and during the Cold War era when the Armed Forces operated two bases in West Germany until 1993.
In a recent interview with CBC News, Boivin’s comments coincide with Germany’s announcement of establishing the 45th Panzer Brigade, comprising approximately 5,000 troops, as a permanent base in Lithuania, set to be fully operational by 2027. This move aligns with a U.S.-based think tank’s warning about potential Russian aggression targeting the Baltic states in the future.
Maintaining a more permanent military presence in the Baltic region would enhance deterrence, according to experts. The evolution towards permanent basing signifies a shift from NATO’s previous preference for rotational presence and has implications for the alliance’s strategic posture.
Canada leads the NATO brigade in Latvia, with Germany overseeing Lithuania and the United Kingdom managing Estonia. The prospect of establishing permanent bases would necessitate diplomatic agreements, potentially involving NATO and the host country, and could require political decisions in Canada, possibly requiring parliamentary approval.
