Areas of activity of The Ministry of Defence:
- develops the overall national defence plan;
- organises international cooperation;
- prepares for and organises mobilisation;
- development of the public service;
- organises the accounting for and training of the Defence Forces reserve;
- finances and supplies the activities of the Defence Forces and the Defence League;
- develops the defence industry;
- supervises the activities of the Defence Forces and the Defence League;
- drafts proposals for relevant legal acts.
The Ministry of Defence oversees the Estonian Defence Forces, the Defence Investment Centre, the Defence Resources Agency, the Foreign Intelligence Service, and the Estonian War Museum – General Laidoner Museum, which presents military history. The Minister is responsible for the oversight of all subordinate agencies from both a legal and practical perspective. The Ministry coordinates its activities with the Defence Forces and other relevant agencies throughout the decision-making process.
Permanent Secretary creates the basic environment and transparent process for the fulfillment of national defence strategic goals, organizational development and economic parameters, all through efficient and open communication. He gives directions and guidelines to the undersecretaries and the head of strategic communications as well as ministry advisors. He coordinates the activities of state agencies administered by the Ministry.
The ministry is organised under the responsibility of four Undersecretaries. The departments under the Undersecretary for Defence Policy develop the future vision for national defence. The Undersecretary for Defence Capability links this vision with capability development and budgeting. The Undersecretary for Defence Industry and Innovation coordinates matters related to the defence industry and innovation, while the Undersecretary for Legal and Administrative Affairs supports the overall functioning of the ministry.
Last updated: 11.03.2026