NATO personnel stationed in southern Estonia shot down an unidentified drone on 17 October near Camp Reedo, a military base hosting US forces less than 30 miles from the Russian border.
The Estonian Defence Forces (EDF) confirmed that the object was detected in the vicinity of the 2nd Infantry Brigade’s base at around 16:30 and was brought down with an anti-drone rifle.
EDF spokesperson Liis Vaksman said, “Allies detected drones flying in the immediate vicinity of the 2nd Infantry Brigade’s military base at 16:30 on October 17, one of which was brought down with an anti-drone rifle.” The device fell within Estonian territory, though searches by EDF and the Police and Border Guard Board failed to locate its remains. Officials have not confirmed the drone’s origin, and no debris has been recovered.
The incident, which only became public this week, has been described as one of the most serious airspace violations in Estonia since three Russian MiG-31s entered its airspace in September. The intrusion then prompted strong diplomatic protests and renewed calls for improved air defences along NATO’s northeastern flank.
Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna warned that Estonia would not tolerate further incursions. “The message must be unequivocal – future violations will meet a response, including, if necessary, the interception and downing of intruding aircraft,” he said.
The base involved hosts US Army units under NATO’s forward presence mission, including elements of the 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment. The drone incident underscores the growing hybrid pressure along the alliance’s eastern border, where small unmanned systems have become a persistent feature of intelligence gathering and provocation.
Officials have not specified the drone’s type or flight path. No evidence has been publicly presented linking the incident to Russia, but it follows a pattern of aggressive probing of NATO airspace by that country.
What is the range of an anti drone rifle, not great I would have thought. They know the drone fell inside Estonia yet no wreckage has been located as yet. I guess that difficulty depends upon the size of the drone, but one presumes small if they are having problems locating it, at least one hopes so.
there are lots of swamps/wetlands in that area. im guessing its underwater.
As it happened 13 days ago, I assume It’s still lost ?
What’s the local Alcohol in them there parts ?
Ex Soviet so about 600% proof….