Prime Minister Ratas visited the Estonian Defence Forces’ annual Spring Storm exercise

Kuusalu, Harju County, 4 May 2020 – While visiting the Spring Storm 2020 exercise, Prime Minister Jüri Ratas said that our Defence Forces are ready for all situations, as expected. “The Defence Forces took well-thought-out and effective measures to prevent the spread of the virus, which, in such an exceptional situation, still allowed for effective training and the development of independent defence capabilities,” said Ratas.

Ratas visited the command post of the exercise at the Central Training Area of the Estonian Defence Forces, where he was given an overview by Colonel Vahur Karus, commander of the 1st Infantry Brigade, of the current state of the Spring Storm exercise and the activities of conscripts, active servicemen, and allies. In addition, he met with soldiers of the 13th Infantry Battalion, who are preparing to go on to reserve, and observed a live fire exercise.

“The Spring Storm is the final exam for conscripts; therefore, it is extremely important that it took place, even if on a reduced scale. It is great to see that all parties are taking the exercise so seriously. This gives confidence that despite the worries caused by the virus, Estonia’s security is guaranteed,” said Ratas.

According to the prime minister, the Defence Forces and the Defence League have been important in alleviating the coronavirus crisis. The Defence Forces sent a field hospital to Kuressaare and helped other institutions with personal protective equipment. In support of the Police and Border Guard Board, members of the Defence League have been involved in the restoration of border control, and more than 300 members of the Naiskodukaitse women’s voluntary defence organisation have helped in various places and institutions across Estonia.

The Spring Storm annual exercise, which lasts from 25 April to 8 May, is held for the 17th time and it is conducted at the Central Training Area of the Defence Forces.

Photos of the exercise (Estonian Defence Forces): https://flic.kr/s/aHsmN1toNW