Estonia is building a new military base near the border with Russia

In the border town of Narva, Estonia has begun preparations for the construction of a new military base, which is intended to strengthen the country’s defence forces’ presence in the east. As early as the beginning of 2027, the town is set to host a unit of up to 150 military personnel, according to ERR.

The decision to build the base was taken after Narva City Council agreed to a land swap with the state.

A temporary base will be established as early as 2027

Whilst the main military facility is still in the planning stage, a temporary military camp made of container modules will be set up in Narva. Construction is scheduled to be completed by early 2027, in time to accommodate the first units. A fully-fledged military town will be built at a later date.

According to Ando Voo, Head of the Project Portfolio at the Defence Investment Centre, the main construction work will begin at the end of this year and be completed in the summer of 2028.

We will build the planned main military town in a single phase. Work will begin at the end of the year and be completed in the summer of 2028. In addition, we will set up a temporary military camp in Narva made of shipping containers, the construction of which will be completed by early 2027,” he said.

According to data from the General Staff of the Estonian Defence Forces, a unit of the 1st Infantry Brigade will be stationed in Narva. The military base itself is designed to accommodate approximately 1,000 people, although around 200 military personnel will be stationed there on a permanent basis. In the first phase, the plan is to station a unit of up to 150 personnel.

The Estonian authorities view the project as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s defence infrastructure against the backdrop of growing security threats in the region.

Narva to receive compensation for the land

Under the land swap agreement, the city will receive around 400,000 euros in compensation, as well as a plot of land in the Old Town area. Narva’s mayor, Katri Raik, noted that this plot could be used to build a small residential complex. However, no specific plans for its development have yet been approved.

Europe strengthens its defences

The construction of a military facility in Narva is taking place against the backdrop of a broader strengthening of NATO’s eastern flank defences.

Earlier, the prime ministers of Latvia and Estonia stated that European countries should focus on strengthening their own defence capabilities. According to them, Russia’s war against Ukraine has changed Europe’s approach to security issues.

Latvia’s Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs has also called for a focus on strengthening the armed forces rather than on restoring relations with Moscow.