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Estonia Responds to Russian Airspace Violations With Unplanned Military Drills
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![Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko]( "Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko")
Estonia has begun unplanned Defense Forces exercises this week to strengthen its response capabilities against airspace intrusions. The decision comes in response to recent incidents of Russian drones breaching Polish airspace, Estonia’s Defense Forces said, as reported by ERR on September 19.
“Dozens of drones that recently violated Poland’s airspace once again demonstrate the impact of Russia’s military actions on neighboring countries,” said Defense Forces Commander Lieutenant General Andrus Merilo.
He noted that although the course deviation of a single aircraft could be explained by electronic interference, the mass appearance of drones in Poland suggested a deliberate provocation.
The drills include mobile radar deployments, partial flight restrictions in the country’s east, and heightened readiness of air defense units positioned outside military bases. Training is also being conducted for active-duty personnel and volunteers from the Kaitseliit defense league.
The Estonian Air Force is leading the exercises, which are focused on testing rapid-response procedures to elevated aerial threats.
Officials stressed that while Estonia currently faces no direct security threat, repeated airspace violations highlight growing risks that must be addressed proactively.
Earlier, Estonia started constructing major fortifications on its eastern border as part of a broader effort to reinforce the Baltic Defense Line against potential Russian aggression.
