Estonia is significantly increasing its defense spending. In 2026, it will exceed 5% of GDP, not including dual-use expenditures (e.g., on transport infrastructure). The priorities for force development are mainly determined by NATO agreements. Estonia will focus on building all layers of air defense, including defense against drones. It will also invest in long-range artillery and missile systems. However, it will not neglect small arms, electronic warfare capabilities, or combat vehicles. These efforts open up opportunities for the Czech defense industry. The Estonian army already uses some Czech platforms and is interested in reviewing and testing others.

The concept of total defense was discussed with the commander of the Defense League (Kaitseliit), Gen. Ilmar Tamm. Kaitseliit is the backbone of this concept. Most of its more than 30,000 members are ready to quickly reinforce the ranks of the regular army in both combat and non-combat positions. Estonia relies not only on NATO and its forward presence in the country for its defense. It also develops its own means of deterrence and defense against possible aggression.