The Estonian government is creating a guide for citizens to respond to potential air threats, including warnings about both possible and immediate dangers from drones. This initiative comes as the country seeks to enhance public awareness regarding aerial security.
Prime Minister Kaja Kallas highlighted that Estonia has previously practiced emergency responses to direct air threats, where citizens are alerted to seek shelter. The concept of a possible threat has emerged, particularly concerning unidentified drones entering Estonian airspace.
“In simpler terms, this means that people can continue their daily activities but must remain vigilant,” Kallas stated in an interview with the national broadcaster.
Interior Minister Lauri Läänemets noted that the alert system was developed in response to the real threat of drone attacks. However, he emphasized that Estonia has not been a direct target, with many drones entering the country being a byproduct of ongoing conflicts nearby.
Läänemets pointed out that no technical alert system can ensure safety by itself; the awareness and readiness of the population are crucial, and currently, the level of public knowledge is insufficient.
He described Estonia’s situation as “hybrid,” where the country is not a direct target but experiences increasing incidents of drones inadvertently crossing its borders.
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur announced that the government has paused a plan to purchase combat vehicles worth over 500 million euros. This decision does not affect current or next year’s budgets, as deliveries are scheduled for 2029-2030. The funds will instead be redirected to bolster the firepower of defense forces, improve mobility, enhance air defense capabilities, and invest in drone technology and situational awareness systems.
Estonia is preparing a public guide for air threats, focusing on drone-related risks. Officials stress the importance of citizen awareness and have paused a major military vehicle purchase to enhance defense capabilities.
Source: ERR