RIGA, Aug 20 (LETA) - The Latvian National Armed Forces (NAF) and the NATO Communications and Information Agency are holding the Baltic Trust 25 military training exercise at Selonia Training Area and in the Sunakste area until August 28, LETA was told at the Defense Ministry.

The 10-day exercise tests and improves participants' ability to respond to reconnaissance and attack drones, simulated operations are carried out to better understand drone capabilities, signal blocking and other defense systems, and strengthen cooperation in the development of UAVs and counter-drone capabilities.

In total, around 470 participants from Latvia and other NATO member states, including Sweden and Germany, are taking part in the exercise. Industry representatives from several European Union countries are also taking part, with projects being tested by military specialists.

To strengthen and improve both defensive and offensive skills with UAVs, the exercise uses different types of drones, as well as a number of counter-drone systems such as radars, sensors, cameras and other instruments.

The Defense Ministry underlines that this exercise is an important demonstration of the joint commitment of Latvia and NATO to provide a robust and interoperable drone defense. Drone technology has fundamentally changed the strategy and tactics of warfare and it is evident that UAVs not only strengthen defense capabilities but also provide new opportunities for local entrepreneurs, research and the military industry in general, the ministry said.