Estonia weighs acquiring light jets to counter Russian attack drones
Written by AI from 1 report listed below. Not checked by a person before publication. How we use AI
Estonia's defence minister said the country may need to acquire light jet aircraft to intercept Russia's jet‑powered long‑range attack drones, noting that air‑to‑air weapons from aircraft are the most effective way to bring them down.
He added that turboprop aircraft might be insufficient and suggested studying whether a light jet could carry a machine gun or small cannon, while also mentioning computer‑controlled cannons, heavy machine guns and jet‑powered interceptor drones as possible solutions. The Estonian Air Force currently has no combat jets, operating only two M28 transport aircraft and leased L‑39 jet trainers, with fighter cover provided by NATO's Baltic Air Policing mission from Ämari Air Base, which shot down a drone over Estonia on 19 May 2026.