Defense Forces head to winter camp with US, Dutch troops
Today marks the start of a Scouts Battalion winter camp held at the Defense Forces' central artillery range, with nearly 1,200 participants. Besides professional Estonian soldiers, home guard members, US infantry armored vehicles and Dutch mechanized infantry vehicles will be represent.
"The main goal of the exercise will be to train in a winter war scenario with our allies from the US and Netherlands," said Lt. Col. Aron Kalmus, commander of the Estonian 1st Infantry. He said the Dutch are looking to familiarize themselves with the Estonian terrain, winter living conditions and tactical principles of a winter war.
"Our Defense Forces' troops will be teaching allies the particularities of winter food issues, clothing and accommodation, and how tactical movements are accomplished on skis. We will also see the infantry CV9035 combat vehicles on Estonian soil for the first time."
The exercise will culminate with an attack simulation that starts on February 13, where Estonian and US armored personnel carriers and the Dutch combat vehicles will be used.
Editor: K. Rikken