maaväe

Maaväe is the genitive form of maavägi, the Estonian term for the country’s land forces. In practice, maavägi refers to the ground component of the Estonian Defence Forces (EDF), tasked with land-based military operations, national defense, and contribution to international security. The maaväe operates alongside the navy (merevägi) and air force (õhuvägi) within the EDF and is responsible for tasks such as national protection, terrain control, and support of allied operations.

The maaväe comprises combat units, support formations, and command structures focused on infantry-centric operations, mobility, and interoperability with NATO partners. Its units typically include infantry, mechanized and armored elements, artillery, engineers, communications, and logistics capabilities. Readiness is maintained through a combination of conscript service, reserve training, and professional personnel, with emphasis on rapid mobilization and multinational cooperation.

History and modernization: The modern maaväe traces its reestablishment with the Estonian Defence Forces after regaining independence in 1991. Since Estonia joined NATO in 2004, the maaväe has undergone reforms to align with alliance standards, improve interoperability, and upgrade training and equipment. The force participates in international exercises and missions, contributing to regional security and collective defense.

The maaväe’s activities are complemented by Estonia’s broader defense policy, which emphasizes deterrence, civilian-mafety integration, and close cooperation with NATO and European partners. Training emphasizes combined arms, crisis response, and adaptable forces capable of operating in diverse environments.