The United Kingdom plans to increase its military presence in Estonia by approximately 300 troops by 2027. The corresponding agreement was signed on 16 July by the defence ministers of the two countries.
According to the document, the size of the British contingent in Estonia will grow from the current approximately 900 to 1,200 personnel. At the same time, the structure of the unit will change: the armoured battle group will be replaced by a mobile anti-tank formation, which will be equipped with long-range strike systems, primarily various types of attack and reconnaissance drones.
“This reinforcement will significantly enhance the capabilities of collective defence on NATO’s eastern flank,” said Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur. The British side emphasises that the new forces will be capable of delivering strikes at greater depth, which is particularly important in the context of modern threats.
In 2027, large-scale exercises are also planned in Estonia with the participation of the 4th British Brigade, designed for the rapid reinforcement of allies in the event of a crisis.