Simple Strike 2016 exercises begin in Latvia
The Simple Strike 2016 joint military exercises have begun on the Adazi training ground in Latvia, Delfi reported, citing the country’s Ministry of Defense.
Servicemen from Latvia, the US, and several other NATO member states are participating in the exercises that last until August 5th.
The joint training operations will include a unit of US Black Hawk helicopters that are stationed at the Lielvarde airbase in Latvia, as well as a unit of A-10 attack aircraft, which are stationed in Estonia. Portuguese F-16 fighters, which are currently involved in NATO’s air patrol mission over the Baltic Sea, are also taking part in the exercises.
The joint drills also involve ground forces and special forces.
The main objective of the exercise is to develop effective interaction between ground forces, special forces, and close air support aircraft.