Defence Policy

Comprehensive national defence encompasses all areas that support the country's military defence and the society’s ability to function during a crisis.

The national defence strategy describes six main directions of national defence activities:

• Military defence;
• Civil sector support for military defence;
• International activity;
• Internal security;
• Ensuring the continuity of critical services;
• Psychological defence.

These directions fall under the responsibility of different government agencies. To implement national defence effectively, government agencies must cooperate, or in other words, carry out comprehensive national defence.

The goal of Estonia’s international defence cooperation is to create conditions in the international environment that ensure collective defence and the rapid and effective implementation of international crisis management when needed. To ensure this, Estonia contributes to strengthening NATO’s collective defence credibility, the European Union’s security pillar, and bilateral defence cooperation with key allied and partner countries.

As a member of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), Estonia is part of NATO’s collective defence and defence cooperation. Collective defence is a joint guarantee among NATO members to ensure the independence and sovereignty of each member state. To this end, Estonia cooperates with NATO as an organisation and with all of its members. By actively contributing to NATO activities, Estonia ensures the continuity of collective defence.

As a comprehensive organisation, the European Union provides the best possible foundation for maintaining peace in Europe. Additionally, the EU’s security and defence policy agenda promotes defence cooperation among member states in various areas, from the defence industry to cybersecurity. By participating in NATO and EU defence cooperation, Estonia expands its opportunities to implement its defence policy internationally.

Estonia’s security is influenced by developments in our region, Europe, and around the world. To improve global security, protect globally recognised fundamental values, and develop cooperation with Estonia’s allies, Estonia participates in international military operations.

By participating in international operations, Estonia helps to ensure global security and guarantees the stability of its own national security.