The Estonian Defense Forces (EDF) at present still do not provide conscripts with adequate done counter-measures training. This includes tactics in dealing with and avoiding drones in open areas, which experts note can often require fairly basic weaponry such as a shotgun or a net, and not just complex electronic warfare devices.
Former EDF commander Gen. Martin Herem is among those critical of Estonia’s drone defense capabilities as they stand. Ilmar Raag, a reservist officer, filmmaker and former media executive, who has coordinated drone donations to Ukraine, has echoed these criticisms.
“The honest answer is that it is enough in the current context, but not quite enough with the future in mind,” Arbo Probal, head of the EDF’s unmanned systems field, said in response to ERR’s question about whether the current anti-drone training offered is adequate.
“We are not pretending to be fully ready for every situation – that would be irresponsible. Instead, we approach the topic honestly and methodically: We are continuously developing anti-drone training, striving to keep it up-to-date in light of both technical and tactical developments. Our focus is on systematic improvement – every new experience and piece of information must reach the methodology and every instructor,” he added.
More read: ERR.EE
