Estonian Air Base Repaired to Meet NATO Air Mission Needs

12 November, 2024 Emari air base. Source: NATO Air Command. The renovated Emari Air Base was opened in Estonia, aiming to strengthen NATO's air mission capabilities in the region.

This was reported by the press service of NATO's Air Command. It is reported that NATO needs well-equipped and well-maintained air bases to carry out collective deterrence and defense missions. The project was funded by Estonia and Luxembourg.

The countries allocated 6.5 and 12 million euros for its implementation, respectively.

Emari air base. Source: Google Earth.

Its total cost of 18.5 million euros is to be reimbursed from NATO's general fund. "After eight months of runway modernization work, Emari Air Base is once again fully ready to patrol NATO airspace; I congratulate Estonia on this tremendous effort and achievement," said Lieutenant General Torsten Poschwatt, Commander of NATO's Joint Air Operations Centre.

The project, which was overseen by the Estonian Defense Investment Center, involved milling and resurfacing approximately 275,000 square meters of runway. In addition, four taxiways, the airfield's drainage system and new markings were updated.

Construction work at the air base. Source: NATO Air Command.

"Air defense is extremely important on NATO's eastern flank, and I am pleased that with the help of Luxembourg we have been able to significantly improve the quality of Emari Air Base," stated Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur.

Development of military infrastructure in Estonia

Previously, on September 18, 2024, it was reported that a new military base called Reedo was opened in southern Estonia near the town of Voru.

Voru is located about 45 kilometers from the border town of Pechora in the Pskov oblast, Russia.

It will be used for "necessary training in accordance with NATO defense plans.".

The complex consists of 14 buildings and can accommodate up to 1,000 soldiers.