MONS, Belgium - The Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), General Tod D. Wolters, visited Estonia on Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021 where he stressed strengthening NATO's deterrence and defence posture while meeting with Estonian Minister of Defence, H. E. Mr. Kalle Laanet in Tallinn.
"Our deterrence and defence posture is ready with the necessary forces and capabilities to preserve peace," said Wolters.
NATO stands ready to defend each and every Ally
During their meeting, General Wolters and Mr. Laanet discussed security challenges and Estonia's military contribution and ironclad commitment to NATO operations.
"NATO stands ready to defend each and every Ally. The enhanced Forward Presence and the Baltic Air Policing in Estonia are a clear demonstration of Allied commitment and solidarity," Wolters said.
TALLINN, Estonia- The Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Tod D. Wolters met with Estonian Minister of Defence, H. E. Mr. Kalle Laanet March 30, 2021. The meeting was a part of a trip through the Baltic region. (PHOTO by Ardi Hallismaa, Estonian Defence Forces)
SACEUR's travel agenda also included a visit to the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE). Escorted by the Centre's Director Colonel Jaak Tarien, General Wolters was given a tour of the Cyber range and briefed on Exercise Crossed Swords 2021.
The Crossed Swords exercise focuses on full-spectrum cyber activities, designed to train the specialists to successfully conduct joint cyber-kinetic operations.
"Success in the 21st century security environment demands that compete in all domains. Cyber threats to the security of the Alliance are becoming more frequent and complex. We must engage with individual Allies, academic institutions, and the private sector to enhance NATO's global cyber defences and improve interoperability," said Wolters.
The goal of the exercise is to practice and experiment in a field that is highly relevant in today's world. It brings together around one hundred participants from more than 21 countries, including NATO and non-NATO member states.
A NATO member since 2004, Estonian forces play a key role in the Alliance's exercises, operations and leadership. They have made troop contributions to NATO Mission Iraq, NATO Response Forces and strengthening the Alliance's cyber defences.