The reserve units that were called-up to participate in short notice exercise were manned and combat ready, which once again confirms the smooth functioning of Estonia’s reserve army system, said Minster of Defence Margus Tsahkna.
“I received a report from the Defence Forces indicating that all reserve units called into service have been manned to the extent prescribed and have reached combat readiness. Eighty-eight per cent of the positions in the units called-up for additional training were filled,” said Minister of Defence Tsahkna. “I can therefore confirm that Estonia’s national defence chain of command functions efficiently from the Government of the Republic all the way to the reservist. The short notice exercise was a success story for the Defence Forces.”
According to Minister of Defence Tsahkna, the realistic and functioning reserve army system relies upon motivated reservists.
“I thank all servicemen and members of the Defence League who, in spite of the short notice, were ready to contribute to the national defence,” said Tsahkna. “Our functioning national defence is based on the awareness and motivation of reservists to be ready to defend Estonia at a moment’s notice.”
With its order issued on Thursday, the Government of the Republic decided on additional training for reservists during the period 2-5 December. The Estonian Defence Forces called-up a company sized Defence League unit and a company sized Signals and Headquarters Battalion unit to the short notice exercise “Okas” (Quill).
The National Defence Act, which entered into force this year, reflects Estonia’s national defence principles and provides the opportunity to quickly call-up reservists within 24 hours.
