Page 31 - The Cormorant Issue 14

RSE 1 Estonia
by Wg Cdr Tom Ashbridge
The prospect of visiting Estonia caused considerable excitement amongst the student body. Clearly the opportunity to learn more about Baltic defence issues played a large part in generating this enthusiasm, but Tallinn’s reputation as the latest European party destination also helped!
Despite some reservations about the weather, we arrived to find Tallinn basking in a relatively mild winter. While the temperature struggled to rise above freezing and there was plenty of snow, winter in Shrivenham had prepared us adequately for the con- ditions. We were made to feel extremely welcome and were provided with an excellent overview of Estonia’s security issues.
Estonia is about to celebrate 20 years of independence and has therefore rapidly developed her state structures from a standing start. This rapid development enabled us to explore the entire Policy-to-Capability continuum. Additionally, Estonia’s small size means that it was possible to gain an overview of Estonia’s secu- rity institutions in a short period, and these factors combined made Estonia an excellent case study.
After briefings from Her Majesty’s Ambassador and the Defence Attaché, the first day saw us visit the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to explore Estonian Foreign and Defence Policy. Estonia sees itself as the most integrated coun- try in Northern Europe, with a strong commitment to the EU, NATO, regional Nordic/Baltic cooperation and having joined the Euro-Zone in January 2011. Moreover, its willingness to pull its weight was striking, and this is well demonstrated through their commitment to Afghanistan, where Estonia is one of the few nations operating without caveats. After lunch, a visit to the Police and Border Guard HQ provided an opportunity to explore some non-Defence security issues.
On Day Two we visited the Headquarters of the Estonian Defence Forces, where we examined the parallels, and differences, between British and Estonian Armed Forces. A notable contrast was Estonia’s use of conscription and large reserve forces - this provided the basis for much discussion. Later, we visited the Scouts Battalion, Estonia’s only volunteer regular Infantry Bat- talion. The Battalion has provided a company to Afghanistan continually since 2006 and, despite this heavy commitment, they remain highly trained and motivated.
The following day we travelled across the country to Tartu, home to the Baltic Defence College and the Estonian National Defence
Tallinn
College. We were welcomed by the Commandant, Brig Gen Kiili, who is the first Estonian to fulfil this prestigious role. The Course got to grips with the Joint Command and General Staff Course, the Baltic equivalent to our own ACSC, and hope that the course Director does not regret his offer to take on any of the ACSC students as DS!
The final day of RSE provided a highlight as the Course visited the seat of the Estonian Parliament. In addition to receiving a briefing on Estonian parliamentary affairs and international rela- tions from Mr Sven Mikser, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Commit- tee, the team had a rare opportunity to climb the Pikk Hermann flag tower, which provides extraordinary views across Tallinn and the Baltic Sea.
Socially, Tallinn did not disappoint, but of particular note was the reception hosted by Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Estonia, Mr Peter Carter. This allowed us to thank our Estonian hosts and enjoy discussions that ranged from Estonian Security to restau- rant recommendations!
Throughout our visit we were struck by the continuity of the Esto- nian message and the clarity with which they view the world. Whilst they are a small country, their determination to make the most of their independence was clear. Moreover, Estonia’s will- ingness to contribute meaningfully to international operations sets the alliance bar high and makes them a valuable friend.
Baltic Defence College
Estonian Scout Battalion
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