Troops Return Home from Afghanistan
The Estonian infantry unit Estcoy-11 and logistic support unit NSE-10, both serving in Afghanistan's southern Helmand province for the past six months, will return to their homeland on the evening of May 27.
The troops will be welcomed at Tallinn Airport by Defense Minister Mart Laar and Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Forces Lt. Gen. Ants Laaneots.
During the mission, the infantry had a total of 73 combat contacts; found and disarmed 25 homemade explosive devices; and discovered dozens of hiding places for illegal weapons and ammunition. The unit's task was also to provide security near the Wahid patrol base and support the training of local police and military troops.
"During the Estcoy-11 service the development of the Afghan National Army and the growth of their professionalism was visible. The local police forces also made a big step forward," said the unit's commanding officer Maj. Ranno Raudsik.
Estonia's presence in Afghanistan will continue, with the tasks being picked up by the two units' replacements - Estcoy-12 and NSE-11.
Ingrid Teesalu