Under the name "Siil 18" (Hedgehog 18), more than 900 troops from NATO allies and partner countries will take part in the exercises, mainly in the Vidzeme region in northern Latvia.
The drills should see State Police and the State Border Guards strengthening their mutual and cross-border co-operation with the armed forces and Estonian counterparts as well as giving a chance for Albanian, Italian, Spanish and Canadian soldiers from NATO's expanded presence in Latvia to participate away from the headquarters at Ādaži base.
"The aim of the training is to improve the ability to perform defense operations by strengthening the territorial protection of the state. The training includes soldiers from 19 countries, including NATO and partner countries," the ministry said.
The active phase will end on May 13, 11:00 in Valka, Lugaži Square, where military equipment will be on display to the public.
As usual, the authorities are asking the public not to be alarmed at the sight of armored columns on the roads and to give way and follow the instructions of military and state police if they do come across units on the move.
As reported by ERR News in Estonia, members of the public may face intensified checks from police in areas affected by the Hedgehog drills, so make sure you have your ID with you if you plan to cross the border.
You can read more about the exact nature of the drills HERE.
NATO joins Estonia for home defence training! Read more: https://t.co/pz4CwylzSY pic.twitter.com/l7E8IMElIE
— SHAPE Public Affairs (@SHAPE_NATO) May 2, 2018
