Estonia Launches Emergency Airspace Defense Drills to Counter Growing Threats

The Estonian Defence Forces launched unscheduled training exercises to respond to threats related to violations of the country’s airspace. Officials say the aim of the drills is to prepare the forces and volunteer formations for rapid response to potential threats and to respond to them operationally.

The training is conducted under the leadership of the Estonian Air Force with the participation of several Defence Forces units. As part of the program, airspace monitoring operations and coordination with civil administration and defence agencies will be practiced.

“The incursion of dozens of drones into Polish airspace last week is yet another indication of Russia’s military activity spreading to neighbouring countries. While a drone’s course change may be related to the consequences of electronic warfare, the number of drones observed in Poland inevitably raises suspicions of intentional provocation”

According to Lieutenant General Andrus Merilo, the Commander of the Estonian Defence Forces, the Defence Forces have no right to stand on the sidelines and must heighten readiness for rapid response to threats.

The training will continue under the supervision of the Air Force and will involve several Estonian units. As part of the drills, airspace surveillance measures will be practiced, and in the eastern part of the country, partial restrictions on air traffic may be imposed to enhance safety.

It is noted that there is currently no direct military threat to Estonia, but the government and defence forces continue to implement preventive measures to reduce the risk of airspace violations.

Citizens are urged to refrain from photographing Defence Forces personnel in unusual locations and not to disclose information about their whereabouts. If there is any suspicion of aircraft activity, including drones, you are advised to report it via the Ole Valmis app.

Context and Consequences

In the context of global events, attention to airspace violations of neighboring countries is increasing. Similar incidents underscore the need for close cooperation among allies and the strengthening of air defense systems, where Estonia maintains readiness to take operational actions within the framework of international security.