More than 1,500 British and French troops will participate in the Estonian Defence Forces’ exercise Siil 2025, in addition to those already stationed in the country as part of NATO’s battlegroup.
This was reported by the General Staff of the Estonian Defence Forces.
During the deployment phase, taking place from April 14 to April 30, the armed forces of the United Kingdom and France will bring a significant number of personnel and military equipment to Estonia, practicing the rapid deployment of their forces to defend the country. The main force will be the British Army’s 4th Brigade, bringing around 1,500 soldiers to the Siil 2025 exercise.
The French Armed Forces will primarily contribute Marine units, complementing the forces already present in Estonia before the start of the Siil 2025 exercises. The British brigade includes two light infantry battalions equipped with Foxhound and Mastiff armored vehicles, as well as a light cavalry squadron of dragoons using Jackal reconnaissance vehicles. In addition, there will be fire support from snipers, artillery, anti-tank and machine gun units, with engineering and logistics elements supporting the brigade, according to the Estonian Defence Forces’ General Staff.
Allied forces will arrive by air, sea, and land, practicing rapid reinforcement of NATO’s battle group through various deployment methods.
“The arrival of Alliance members in Estonia is a perfect opportunity to train the entire reception chain—from the operation of ports and airports to the final delivery of equipment to its destination,” said Major Toomas Pärnpuu, Commander of the Movement and Transportation Service of the Support Command, who leads the division.
According to him, the unit’s goal is “to ensure the smooth and safe reception of Alliance members on land, at sea, and in the air.”
The Defence Forces also warned that due to the arrival of additional allied units, there may be more military vehicles and convoys than usual on Estonia’s roads during this time. They urge drivers to be cautious and patient, as Defence Forces convoys move slower than regular traffic.
