merevägi

Merevägi, the Estonian Navy, is the naval branch of the Estonian Defence Forces (Kaitsevägi). It is responsible for the defense of Estonia’s territorial waters, protection of sea approaches to the country, and the maintenance of maritime security in the Baltic region. The Merevägi focuses on mine warfare, coastal defense, surface ships, and maritime surveillance, and it contributes to international operations and NATO-led missions as well as joint Baltic Sea exercises. The navy cooperates with allied forces for training, intelligence sharing, and operations, including mine countermeasures and coastal defense.

Historically, Estonia possessed a small interwar navy, which ceased to exist during Soviet occupation. After regaining independence in 1991, the Merevägi was rebuilt within the Estonian Defence Forces. Estonia joined NATO in 2004, a development that significantly influenced its naval modernization and integration into allied command structures and operations.

Organization and equipment: The Merevägi operates from Estonian coastal bases and employs a fleet built around mine countermeasure vessels and patrol craft, complemented by support ships and coastal surveillance capabilities. It relies on NATO standards for communications and interoperability, and participates in multinational exercises and missions in the Baltic region. Manpower includes professional sailors and reservists, with training aligned to NATO requirements.