Estonia to build around 150 bunkers near Russian border

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - Estonia plans to build around 150 bunkers in the northeastern Ida-Virumaa region bordering Russia as part of efforts to strengthen its defensive readiness, Defense Minister Martin Herem said Wednesday.

According to Estonian public broadcaster ERR, around 100 bunkers will be constructed on state-owned land, while approximately 50 will be built on private or municipal land.

Herem did not provide further details about the planned bunkers or their intended use.

The move comes as Baltic states are stepping up defense measures and civilian preparedness in recent years in response to heightened security concerns.

NATO officials have warned of Russian drone incursions, airspace violations, sabotage and other hybrid threats across the region. European countries have also been strengthening their air defenses in response to growing security challenges.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, NATO has reinforced its eastern flank by deploying additional troops and preparing a rapid-response plan.

Earlier this month, the Estonian military announced plans to permanently relocate a combat-ready brigade closer to the Russian border.

The 1st Brigade is set to move to a newly expanded military base less than 50 kilometers (31 miles) from the border, a move aimed at improving Estonia’s ability to respond to a potential Russian attack.

Aysu Biçer