NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine
Crystal Arrow 2026 is taking place across large parts of Latvia. (Photo: author)
The war in Ukraine remains a focus of procurement, concepts of operation, tactics and training for NATO countries. The Crystal Arrow Exercise in Latvia, ongoing until 15 May, is a reflection of this.
Thousands of soldiers are taking part in NATO’s Crystal Arrow 2026 and Spring Warrior exercises in Latvia, which will see soldiers train in conventional warfare full-scale defensive operations alongside an evaluation of uncrewed equipment.
Around 2,500 soldiers and 500 pieces of equipment will take part in the Crystal Arrow 2026 exercise and the Spring Warrior exercise will involve more than 2,200 soldiers and around 300 pieces of equipment.
Crystal Arrow includes units from the Latvian Land Forces Mechanised Infantry Brigade, the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia, the National Guard’s 1st Riga Brigade, 2nd Vidzeme Brigade and 3rd Latgale Brigade. It
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display]()
SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display
The array of platforms on display at SAHA 2026 showcased the diversity of equipment now provided by the Turkish defence industry.
-
![SAHA 2026: Is the Turkish Army’s Altay MBT finally ready?]()
SAHA 2026: Is the Turkish Army’s Altay MBT finally ready?
At SAHA 2026, the Altay was proudly on display. But has the platform finally overcome the problems that have left it repeatedly late?
-
![AI-enhanced combat radios: how to turn comms networks into an EW advantage]()
AI-enhanced combat radios: how to turn comms networks into an EW advantage
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming defence communications, boosting situational awareness and electronic warfare (EW) capabilities across the battlespace. Bittium’s new partnership with MarshallAI will significantly enhance networked technology, turning radios into cutting-edge sensors with a range of applications.
-
![Finding the balance between armour and air defence as UAVs proliferate]()
Finding the balance between armour and air defence as UAVs proliferate
While the growing drone threat has sharpened the focus on air defence solutions, Dr Peter Magill looks at why protected mobility remains crucial.
