RIGA, July 19 (LETA) - An internal military investigation into the May 7 drone incidents in Rezekne has identified certain shortcomings, but no disciplinary measures have been imposed.

LETA learned from the Ministry of Defense (MoD) that classified documents of the National Armed Forces (NBS) and standard operating procedures were analyzed during the investigation, which is why the final report is also classified.

Current Minister of Defense Raivis Melnis has reviewed the report and instructed the NBS, as well as the relevant departments within the Ministry of Defense, to ensure the implementation of the recommendations contained in the report, the ministry stated.

The aim of the recommendations is to improve response protocols, enhance the exchange of information and cooperation among the services involved, and strengthen public awareness of potential airspace threats.

Based on the audit results, amendments to the regulatory framework related to the procedure for compensating for damages have also been initiated.

During the agency’s inspection, the primary focus was on assessing the adequacy of communication systems, communication channels, and response protocols in relation to the severity of the threat, as well as the effectiveness of institutional response and interagency communication. Recommendations have been developed to address the identified shortcomings and implement the necessary improvements. These will be tested during regular exercises and training sessions conducted by the NBS and other agencies.

No disciplinary action was taken against any official, nor were any disciplinary proceedings initiated as a result of the internal audit.

As previously reported, in the early morning of May 7, several unmanned aerial vehicles entered Latvian airspace from Russia. Two of them crashed in Rezekne, damaging a petroleum product storage facility.

Following criticism from the public and politicians, then-Defense Minister Andris Spruds (Progressives) ordered an internal investigation to assess the response to the drone incidents in Latgale.

The drone incidents later cost Spruds his post, and shortly thereafter, the entire Evika Silina-led (New Unity) government collapsed.