Other events in Baltic States

According to proposals sent to approval to other institutions, Estonia will have more than 140 members of Defence Forces taking part in international military operations in the framework of NATO forces in Afghanistan, Mali, Kosovo, Middle East and in the framework of the EU Nordic Battle Group, reports LETA the Ministry of Defence.

According to the International Military Co-operation Act, Riigkogu makes the decisions on using Defence Forces in international missions.

“As a Member State of NATO, European Union and of the United Nations, it is our obligation to contribute to their international operations,” said Minister of Defence Sven Mikser. “Hence Estonia will make its contribution to guaranteeing security on an international scale, but will also ensure its own defence, which is very important in the current tense security situation,” he added.

One of the principal missions for the Defence Forces next year will be participation in the NATO forces NRF, where it will also provide a mine-clearance vessel, a ship team of up to 40 active duty soldiers and up to five staff officers. This is the same volume as Estonia’s participation this year.

Up to 50 members of Defence Forces are planned to take part in the service of the European Union Nordic Battle Group.