International military exercise 'Lightning' kicks off in Estonia
According to Ukrinform, ERR reports this.
The main goal of the maneuvers is to practice the rapid redeployment of allied forces and joint responses to threats. According to the Estonian Defense Forces, the drills are led by the Estonian Division.
Troops from Estonia, Latvia, the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Canada are taking part. Allied forces will train in airborne operations, parachute jumps, and the exercise will culminate with live-fire drills at the Nursipalu and Rutja training areas, said exercise commander Colonel Janno Märka.
The main activities will take place in western, northern, and southeastern Estonia. The maneuvers involve land, air, and naval units — around 3,000 troops in total. The drills are defensive in nature, using simulation equipment, including blank ammunition.
Local residents have been advised to expect increased movement of military convoys on public roads and possible delays.
Exercise Lightning demonstrates NATO allies’ readiness to defend the region. The Alliance’s multinational battlegroups are also stationed in Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland. The battlegroup in Estonia includes forces from the UK, France, and Iceland.
Earlier reports indicate that Denmark did not invite U.S. troops to take part in Arctic Light 2025, the largest military exercise in Greenland’s modern history.
Photo: Prantsusmaa kaitsevägi / French Armed Forces
