Air Defence Wing (Estonia)

Air Defence Wing
Õhukaitsedivisjon
Insignia of the Air Defence Wing
Active2023–present
Country Estonia
Branch Estonian Air Force
TypeAir defence
Size2 batteries
Part ofEstonian Defence Forces
Garrison/HQÄmari Air Base
Anniversaries1 July
Commanders
Current
commander
Lieutenant colonel Toomas Lents

The Air Defence Wing is the main air defence unit of the Estonian Air Force. It was established in 2023 for ensuring the integrity of the airspace of Estonia by planning and executing active air defense operations.[1]

The new unit is permanently located in Ämari Air Base and it will be equipped with newly bought IRIS-T systems.[2]

Equipment

Air-defence equipment

Model Image Origin Type Caliber Number Notes
IRIS-T SLM  Germany Medium range air defense system In May 2023, Estonia and Latvia made a decision to jointly procure medium-range IRIS-T SLM.[3] The systems are expected to be operational in 2025.

Structure

Air Defence Wing:

  • Headquarters
  • 1. Missile battery
  • 2. Missile battery

References

  1. ^ "Air Defence Wing – Estonian Defence Forces". Retrieved 19 May 2025.
  2. ^ "Estonia inks contract to buy IRIS-T medium-range air defense systems". 11 September 2023. Retrieved 19 May 2025.
  3. ^ "Estonia, Latvia plan joint purchase of German medium-range IRIS-T air defense systems". The Washington Post. 21 May 2023. Retrieved 19 May 2025.