The United Kingdom will increase its military presence in Estonia by deploying an additional 400 troops from next year as part of a new defense agreement with the Baltic country, British and German media reported.
The reinforcement will raise the number of British soldiers stationed in Estonia from around 800 to 1,200 starting in April. London said the move is aimed at strengthening NATO’s eastern flank and improving deterrence against potential Russian aggression.
“We are strengthening our presence in Estonia to protect NATO territory and deter Russian aggression,” British Defense Minister Dan Jarvis said.
The agreement was signed in Tallinn by Jarvis and Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur. Under the new arrangement, British forces will transition from an armored battle group to a more mobile anti-tank formation adapted to the specific conditions of Estonia.
The new unit will receive faster and more flexible vehicles, advanced weapons systems and specialized high-tech drones designed to operate effectively in the Baltic environment.
