Estonia Accelerates Defence Modernisation Amid Growing Security Threats

Why It Matters

The reforms deepen Estonia’s deterrence capability and signal stronger collective security for the Baltic region, reinforcing NATO’s posture against Russian aggression.

Key Takeaways

• 12‑month conscription starts 2027, 4,100 troops.
• Conscripts' pay up 30%, academy seats rise to 150.
• Four new navy vessels ordered, plus minehunter upgrades.
• Baltic Defence Line adds ~600 bunkers with Latvian partnership.
• Estonia pledges 0.25% GDP aid to Ukraine.

Pulse Analysis

Estonia’s defence overhaul reflects a broader trend among small NATO members to convert conscription from a training pipeline into an operational reserve. By extending service to twelve months and increasing allowances, the government not only boosts recruitment numbers but also creates a pool of combat‑ready personnel that can be mobilized quickly. This shift aligns with Tallinn’s strategic calculus that a credible, ready force is essential for deterrence on the volatile eastern flank of the alliance.

The maritime and land components of the plan underscore a multi‑domain approach to security. Four new vessels—two capable of open‑sea missions and two for coastal patrol—will expand Estonia’s ability to monitor the Gulf of Finland and protect critical sea lanes. Simultaneously, the Baltic Defence Line, a network of roughly 600 fortified bunkers built with Latvian partners, will provide hardened positions for infantry and anti‑air assets, while the upcoming Narva base strengthens forward deployment near the Russian border. Modernising minehunters and exploring advanced systems such as drones and radars further enhances situational awareness.

Beyond national defense, Estonia’s commitment to allocate 0.25% of GDP to Ukraine signals a political and fiscal alignment with Kyiv, reinforcing the broader NATO resolve. The investment in joint training with allies like Finland and France, coupled with potential acquisitions of Polish Piorun air‑defence missiles, illustrates a collaborative procurement model that spreads costs and interoperable capabilities. As regional tensions persist, Estonia’s comprehensive modernization not only fortifies its own security but also contributes to the collective deterrence architecture that underpins stability in the Baltic Sea region.

Estonia accelerates defence modernisation amid growing security threats

By Karolina Kisiel · 9 February 2026, 12:27

During a conference held on Friday at the Estonian Ministry of Defence, plans for the development of Estonia’s armed forces were presented, including key military capabilities and defence investments.

Photo: Republic of Estonia Defence Forces

Conscription reform, naval expansion, land defence, and support for Ukraine

First, from 2027, Estonian conscripts will be inducted under a 12‑month service model, with a planned intake of 4 100 conscripts, who may also be deployed for combat‑readiness duties, marking a shift from training‑only service to active operational roles. In addition, conscripts’ allowances will increase by 30 percent this year, while the number of study places at the Estonian Military Academy will rise from 90 to 150.

One of the key areas of focus is the navy. Estonia aims to build four new vessels, two for open‑sea operations and two coastal platforms. Additionally, the minehunters Sakala, Ugandi and Admiral Cowan will be modernised.

As part of its land‑domain efforts, the Baltic Defence Line is scheduled for completion by 2027 and will include approximately 600 bunkers, with procurement carried out in cooperation with Latvia. In parallel, a new Defence Forces base in Narva is expected to be constructed in the second half of 2027, with the procurement winner to be announced in May.

Lastly, Estonia reaffirmed its continued support for Ukraine, pledging assistance amounting to 0.25 percent of GDP in the coming year.

Action over fear

While the possibility of Russian military action against the Baltic states cannot be dismissed, this awareness should not translate into fear. Instead, it should reinforce a practical, forward‑looking approach, one that Estonia exemplifies.

Commenting on these developments, Aleksander Olech, Editor‑in‑Chief of Defence24.com and a PhD of the National Defence University in Warsaw, notes:

“The Estonians are investing millions in armaments. In addition to the planned purchases, they had earlier taken equipment from the Americans, and also decided on the Polish Piorun systems. They are considering further investments, including in drones and radars. Training ranges are also important, if only because of joint exercises with the Finns and the French. Tallinn is aware of the growing danger and hybrid actions from the Kremlin. Nevertheless, Estonia is certain that it can rely on its allies and will maintain defence on NATO’s eastern flank for as long as it is able. The fact that Russia is considering an invasion of the Baltic states is real, but while being in Tallinn, one does not feel fear. The beginning of victory is courage, and now it is manifested in further arms purchases.”