Estonia Plans Narva Military Base Near Russian Border
Estonia plans a military base in Narva near the Russian border, with up to 1,000 Estonian and allied troops rotating through the site by summer 2028.
According to ERR, Narva and the Estonian authorities have completed a land swap required for the construction of a military compound for the Estonian Defence Forces near the Russian border.
Estonia’s Defence Ministry said the facility is intended to establish a permanent military presence in the country’s east. ERR noted that no units have been stationed in Narva on a permanent basis since the 1990s, despite the city’s strategic location.
The military compound is expected to become part of Estonia’s national defence system. Up to 1,000 Estonian and allied troops will be able to rotate through the base.
Western media previously reported that construction is scheduled to begin in 2026 and be completed by summer 2028. The project is intended to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank. At the same time, Estonia plans to reinforce the Baltic Defence Line.
Major General Vahur Karus, Chief of the General Staff of the Estonian Defence Forces, said the troop presence in Narva should be viewed as a security guarantee rather than a threat.
In summer 2025, Estonia’s Centre for Defence Investments and the Defence Forces began digging anti-tank ditches along the country’s southeastern border with Russia. Estonia plans to build up to 600 bunkers and other fortifications.