Estonian defmin: Spring Storm becoming one of largest exercises in region

Photo: Priit Simson

Defense Minister Urmas Reinsalu who on Saturday visited the defense forces' largest annual exercise Spring Storm currently underway in northern Estonia observed that the exercise has grown from year to year and become one of the largest international trainings in the nearby region.

Spring Storm that brings together more than 5,000 members of the defense forces and the volunteer corps Kaitseliit (Defense League), reservists and civilians, has long ceased to be a solely Estonian exercise as also allies take part in it, the defense minister said. Among participants in this year's edition are units from Belgium, Britain, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland.

Reinsalu visited exercise headquarters at Jagala some 25 kilometers to the east of Tallinn where he was briefed about the previous course of the war games after which he toured the exercise area and familiarized himself with units' activities. This year attack aircraft and naval vessels are for the first time taking part in the exercise and cooperation between the three main branches – the Army, Air Force and Navy – is being practiced.

The minister said he counts on the understanding of local residents. "Well-trained units of the defense forces are in the interest of all the people of Estonia. Local residents who allow the defense forces to train on their land and in the neighborhood help safeguard the security of their families and homes," he said.

Running from May 9 to 25, Spring Storm serves as the graduation exam for an infantry battalion made up of conscripts, whose members will enter the reserve after the exercise.