Development of Defence Related Infrastructure

The development of national defence infrastructure is a process with long-term effects, since new infrastructure is created or old infrastructure is renewed with the intention of using them for many decades.

Over the past decade, significant investments have been made in improving and updating service and training conditions for conscript and active military personnel. Estonia currently has one of the most modern barracks and infrastructure among NATO countries.

We want our conscripts, servicemembers and Allies to have modern living conditions, our equipment to be cared for and maintained, and equipment and supplies to be securely stored. Opportunities for exercising are also important to the development of defence capabilities.

A total of 624 registered immovables and 578 structures fall within the area of administration of the Ministry of Defence. A total of 95% of those buildings and structures are administered by the Centre for Defence Investments.

Infrastructure Development

At present, there are seven training areas in Estonia – the Defence Forces Central Training Area, and the Nursipalu, Sirgala, Kikepera, Klooga, Männiku and Soodla training areas. In addition, there are several Defence Forces and Defence League shooting ranges and other training areas located across Estonia.

By 1991, the Soviet Armed Forces had at its disposal about 87,147 hectares, or about 2% of Estonia’s territory, the troops had nearly 800 locations, and the number of soldiers could reach up to 120,000. The troops of the Russian Federation left Estonia in 1994.

Surface Area of Modern Infrastructure | in square metres

Training areas |

Defence Forces and Defence League Training Areas

Military training can only be ensured with training areas that are sufficient in size and number. To ensure our defensive readiness, the Estonian Defence Forces and our Allies who are securing our defence here must receive the most realistic training possible across all terrains, under all conditions and using all of the weapons used by the Defence Forces. There is no other way to ensure crisis preparedness.

A Defence Forces training area is an area of land or sea which includes the airspace above the area and where the Defence Forces and units of the Defence League organise their tactical training, exercises, shooting and ordnance disposal, and where weapons, ammunition, combat and other equipment is tested.

Size of Training Areas | in hectares

At present, there are seven training areas in Estonia – the Defence Forces central training area, and the Nursipalu, Sirgala, Kikepera, Klooga, Männiku and Soodla training areas. In addition, there are several Defence Forces and Defence League shooting ranges and other training areas located across Estonia.