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Latvia orders air defense missiles

Latvia has exercised a contract option with Saab to obtain additional RBS 70 air defense missile systems.

By Richard Tomkins
Australian troops use the RBS 70 air defense missile. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Thomas E. Coffman/U.S. Navy
Australian troops use the RBS 70 air defense missile. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Thomas E. Coffman/U.S. Navy

LINKOPING, Sweden, Sept. 8 (UPI) -- Latvia's Ministry of Defense has ordered additional RBS 70 short-range, ground-based air defense missiles from Saab of Sweden.

The number of missile systems ordered through an option of a 2015 contract was not disclosed but Saab said the missiles would be delivered this year and next.

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"We are pleased to see the RBS 70 system as a key capability that contributes to strengthening the defense and security of the Latvian nation," said Anna Fröjd, head of Saab's Nordic and Baltic area business unit. "The RBS 70 is a modern air defense missile system with flexible design and several upgrade possibilities that meet Latvia's evolving needs.

The RBS 70 is a man-portable system for anti-aircraft warfare. The missile -- its newest variant is the NG -- stand and sight weigh about 192 pounds.

Range of the missile: about 4.9 miles.

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