Kaitsevägi

Kaitsevägi, or the Estonian Defence Forces, is the unified armed forces of Estonia. It is responsible for national defense and contributes to regional security and international peacekeeping. The Defence Forces operate under the authority of the Ministry of Defence and are commanded by the Commander of the Defence Forces. The system relies on professional personnel, conscripts, and reserve forces, coordinated with civilian agencies and authorities.

Historically, Estonian military forces date to the independence movement of 1918, were dissolved during Soviet occupation, and were reestablished after Estonia regained independence in 1991. Since joining NATO in 2004, the Defence Forces have focused on interoperability with allied forces, modernisation of equipment, and rapid-reaction capabilities, including participation in multinational exercises and missions in the Baltic region and beyond.

Organization and structure: The Defence Forces consist of the Land Forces, the Navy, and the Air Force, supported by reserve formations and the voluntary Defence League (Kaitseliit). Training emphasizes territorial defense, crisis response, and interoperability with NATO standards. The Defence Forces maintain close cooperation with border guard and civil emergency services for disaster response and continuity of government.

International role: Estonia contributes to NATO operations and European security through deployments, training missions, and cooperation in cyber and information defense. The Defence Forces continually modernise and invest in mobility, readiness, and joint capabilities to deter aggression and maintain Baltic security in cooperation with international allies.