Estonia's border construction with Russia on track for 2027 completion

Estonia's ambitious border construction project along its eastern frontier with Russia is progressing, with the completion of the southeastern land border expected by the end of this year. However, the border along extensive waterways is projected to take a couple more years to finish, with full completion anticipated by the end of 2027.

The project, known as the Eastern Border Project, is divided into two main sections: the 135.6-kilometer southeastern land border, located in a sparsely populated and heavily forested region, and the much longer border that follows the waterways of Lake Peipus and the Narva River, stretching to the Baltic Sea, Caliber.Az reports via Estonian media.

Merle Tikk, the project manager at the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA), stated: "The construction of the eastern border between the Republic of Estonia and the Russian Federation is currently proceeding according to plan." She confirmed that around 60 kilometers of land border infrastructure has already been completed, while work continues on an additional 26 kilometers. Construction is expected to begin on another 20 kilometers in the spring.

The project, which has a budget of approximately €170 million, has seen €90 million spent so far, with around €11 million sourced from EU external funding. Tikk emphasized that one of the most time-consuming aspects of the project is the procurement process. "Since this is a procurement related to defense and security, the process takes longer than usual, which also increases the overall duration of border construction," she explained.

The construction incorporates both physical infrastructure and advanced surveillance systems, with adaptations made based on topographical conditions. For example, in marshy areas, a pontoon road solution has been developed to allow patrol vehicles to move in wet conditions. In areas where a deterrent fence isn't feasible, alternative surveillance solutions have been used.

"Environmental conditions dictate which border infrastructure and surveillance solution is suitable for each specific location," Tikk concluded.

The ongoing work aims to ensure the border's full functionality while meeting security needs.

By Vafa Guliyeva