Estonia Boosts Defence Spending to Catch Up with Poland!

As of 2022, Tallinn spent about 2% of its GDP on defence, which fell within NATO guidelines. The war in Ukraine and the growing threat from the Russian Federation have led to increasing calls for raising security spending. In July of this year, there were even discussions about reaching a target of 4% of GDP (presumably within two years), which would set a record alongside Poland. 

At that time, the Estonian Minister of Defence, Hanno Pevkur, also called for allies to increase their defence spending to 2.5-3% of GDP. 

Currently, it is said that between 2025 and 2028, Estonia will invest nearly 6.4 billion euros in the defence sector. This will mean an expenditure level of 3.7% of GDP annually. The main focus at this moment will be on investments in early warning systems. These expenditures will place Estonia second in the Alliance, just behind Poland, in terms of defence spending relative to GDP. 

„Estonia needs armaments. Importantly, it is interested in additional products from Poland. At the same time, it is focusing on developing its own defence industry, including offering drones. It should be emphasized that Estonia has provided Ukraine with nearly 40% of its annual military budget and over 0.8% of its GDP, more than any other country per capita. Tallinn is aware that Moscow’s military capabilities far exceed its own. Therefore, in addition to faith in NATO and potential military support from allies, a decision has been made to shift society to a defensive mode, with investments raised to the highest level. I would like to remind you that next year, the production of combat ammunition will begin, and the new production line will be located at the military base in Amari.” says Dr. Aleksander Olech, Defence24. 

In conclusion, Estonia is clearly committed to increasing its defence spending, reflecting its determination to build a stronger military position and readiness to respond to growing threats in the region.