Estonia will launch a system to counter drones and expand the military's authority
The Estonian government has approved a series of bills aimed at strengthening the country’s defense capabilities. Among the key decisions are the creation of a multi-layered system to counter drones and the expansion of the powers of security forces.
This was reported by ERR.
Under the new initiatives, the roles of various agencies in countering drones during peacetime have been clearly defined. The defense forces, police, and owners of critical infrastructure will be granted broader powers to respond to threats.
“The police will deal with drones in peacetime, while the military will shoot down combat drones. If necessary, the services will complement each other,” said Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal.
In 2026–2027, the country plans to procure additional systems for detecting and neutralizing drones. In particular, acoustic surveillance systems for low-flying objects will be deployed in eastern and northern Estonia. By the end of 2027, such capabilities are expected to cover the entire territory of the country.
In addition, the government approved a draft law from the Ministry of Defense amending legislation governing the activities of the Defense Forces. The document provides for creating conditions to engage allies in the event of hybrid threats, including scenarios such as a mass influx of refugees.
New concepts are also being introduced, specifically the “immediate vicinity” of the Defense Forces’ security zone and the “vessel security zone.” This will expand the military’s authority to control activities in adjacent areas.
Separately, the law grants the right to regulate shipping in the event of an increased threat, as well as to inspect documents and question individuals. Once the amendments are adopted, the Defense Forces will be able to confiscate property or detain people if necessary.
Earlier, Estonia ordered additional HIMARS systems from the U.S. and may receive them as early as 2027—sooner than planned. At the same time, the country is developing its own defense infrastructure in collaboration with the American company Lockheed Martin. As a result, Tallinn is building a more flexible and long-range missile arsenal.
The Estonian Ministry of Defense wants to simplify the procedures for procuring and using drones in the military. To this end, it has prepared amendments to aviation regulations designed to make the process faster and more flexible. The government explains this by noting that drones are rapidly transforming modern warfare, and regulations must keep pace.
