Estonia’s defense budget is expected to rise by EUR 103 million, to EUR 748 million next year. This will put the country’s defense spending at 2.31% of the forecast GDP.
Minister of Defense Kalle Laanet (Reform) said this sum included allied costs, a defense investment program and new capability developments.
“We can send a strong message to both our allies and potential aggressor that Estonia takes its security very seriously and is ready to contribute to it,” Laanet said.
The money saved from defense reform will be moved into capability development. In the coming years, the state plans to continue reforming personnel services, consolidating vehicle repair and maintenance services and warehouse management. (ERR/Business World Magazine)