Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Estonia

06/09/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/09/2021 09:03

Ministry of Defence conducted defence readiness exercise in co-operation with National Defence Committee

Yesterday, a training exercise was held at the Ministry of Defence, during which the decision-making processes related to the establishment of enhanced defence readiness were practiced in cooperation with the National Defence Committee of the Estonian Parliamen, Riigikogu. The Ministry of Defence organises training exercises on a regular basis, this time, the members of the National Defence Committee were involved in the exercise.

'As a former member of the National Defence Committee, I know how important it is to also practice certain strategic situations with members of the Riigikogu. The readiness to take decisions is an important part of our defence readiness,' said Minister of Defence Kalle Laanet.

'The exercise was essential for members of the National Defence Committee and was very well prepared. Such exercises should be an annual event,' noted Enn Eesmaa, Chairman of the National Defence Committee.

The Prime Minister shall direct the organisation of increased defence readiness provided for in the National Defence Act, with the Government of the Republic adopting a decision to establish this situation and submitting it to the Riigikogu for approval. The decision to increase national readiness from general defence readiness to enhanced defence readiness is taken by the government in the event of a threat to national security, with threat assessments serving as the basis for these decisions.

During the period of increased defence readiness, the government may impose restrictions on the organisation of public life in order to ensure the fulfilment of national defence tasks and to ensure the functioning of the state. Increasing defence readiness provides an opportunity to increase the combat readiness of the Defence Forces.

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