On 20 January 2026, Ukrainian soldiers from the 12th Special Purpose Brigade “Azov” participated in the annual joint multinational exercises of the Latvian National Armed Forces in Riga. The brigade says the delegation was led by Deputy Commander Major Dmytro “Shyk” Danilov.
Ukrainian lectures instead of scenarios: a format that changed the dynamics
For the first time in the history of these exercises, the program was entirely based on lecture presentations by Ukrainian soldiers.
The combat experience Ukraine has gained in the full-scale war is increasingly becoming an integral part of Europe’s collective security.
Azov’s presentations were combined with:
- active discussions,
- collaborative workshops,
- question-and-answer sessions.
This format allowed participants to deeply explore contemporary warfare topics, rather than relying solely on theoretical models.
Latvia and Azov as an element of joint defense
Colonel Normunds Baranovs, commander of the 1st Riga Brigade of the Latvian National Guard “Zemessardze,” addressed participants with a keynote speech.
He emphasized the effectiveness of sharing real combat experience, the importance of structured, multi-level cooperation, and the strategic value of the partnership between the 12th Brigade “Azov” and the 1st Riga Brigade “Zemessardze.”
From artillery to drones: what the "Azov" team presented
Major Dmytro “Shyk” Danilov outlined approaches to implementing effective tactical mechanisms at brigade and battalion levels.
Azov soldiers delivered lectures on:
- artillery unit operations in offensive and defensive actions,
- the formation and function of support battalions,
- countering different types of UAVs,
- effective engineering unit operations on the modern battlefield.
Officers of the army, the navy, the air force, the Latvian National Guard, as well as representatives of the NATO Multinational Unit “NORTH” stationed in Latvia, attended the event.
