Two MQ-1 Predator remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs) and approximately 70 Airmen from the 147th Reconnaissance Wing of the Texas Air National Guard based at Ellington Field, Houston, Texas, deployed to Lielvarde Air Base, Latvia over the weekend.
This temporary deployment of aircraft and personnel, which continues through mid-September, will test the unit’s ability to forward deploy RPAs and conduct air operations in an effort to help assure our Latvian allies, NATO allies and European partners of our commitment to regional security and stability. The squadron will also conduct partner training on RPA operations.
Through these strengthened relationships and engagements with our allies and partners, the U.S. demonstrates its shared commitment to a safe and secure Europe. This deployment is funded by the European Reassurance Initiative (ERI); ERI has funded multiple events that include increased U.S. military presence in Europe and additional bi-lateral and multi-lateral training events.
Source: US European Command