Estonia’s Narva defence base delayed until summer 2028

Construction of a new Estonian Defence Forces base in Narva, on the border with Russia, is expected to cost more than €20 million and be completed six months later than originally scheduled, in summer 2028, ERR reported.

The project’s cost has risen by €5 million, while the delay was attributed to political instability within the Narva city administration, which held up the allocation of the site.

“The previous situation in Narva politics and the city administration prevented us from moving forward with the construction of the base. The process was effectively at a standstill. That is where we lost time,” said Ando Voogma, a manager at the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments.

The project is largely funded by the European Union, with around €19 million due to come from the EU Cohesion Fund. The land-related issues have now been resolved, allowing the construction contract to be signed as early as October. Major construction work is expected to begin next year.

A temporary base will be capable of accommodating a company-sized unit. The permanent facility will provide accommodation for up to 500 people, while another 500 could be housed in tents. Around 200 servicemen are expected to be stationed at the base on a permanent basis.

By Tamilla Hasanova