Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur spoke about a new plan that will guide the development of Estonia's defense over the next four years. The plan focuses on air defense, developing deep strike capabilities, and improving intelligence. The state plans to procure additional ammunition over the next five years.
The 2026 defense budget is 2.4 billion euros. Over four years, the total amount exceeds 10 billion euros. From the budget, 37% will go to procurements, 25% to ammunition, 14% to labor costs, 13% to operational costs, 3% to intelligence, 3% to the Defense League, and 5% to infrastructure.
By 2029, Estonia aims to create a reliable defense system together with its allies. The Defense Forces must be ready to respond to any threats. The plan includes more active-duty personnel, more modern weaponry, and more ammunition.
The Defense Minister emphasized that developing new capabilities requires more active-duty personnel and better training. Estonia's artillery must achieve a range of over 300 kilometers. The state will focus on influencing the adversary before they reach Estonia.
The Defense Forces will create an air defense brigade. The state will acquire additional air defense systems, such as Piorun. The plan also includes market research for ballistic missile defense.
The development of the Army will focus on command systems and drones. 150 million euros will be allocated for drone development. The plan also includes the replacement of CV90 combat vehicles.
The Navy plans to extend the lifespan of minehunters. Patrol ships will be replaced. The state will also acquire ship-to-ship missiles and sea mines.
The number of active-duty personnel will increase to 4,400 by 2030. The Defense League's funding will increase by 75 million. The plan also includes introducing drone training in schools.
The state will procure additional ammunition over the next five years. The plan includes the construction of ammunition depots. The state will also develop the Baltic defense zone and complete the Narva barracks.