Estonia Considers 10 Light Fighter Jets to Counter Attack Drones

Estonia is considering acquiring approximately 10 light fighter aircraft to intercept fast-moving attack drones, as the Baltic country evaluates new air defense capabilities in response to lessons from the war in Ukraine.

Defense Minister Martin Herem outlined the potential requirement in remarks reported by Estonian public broadcaster ERR on October 24. Aircraft costs could range from €15 million to €100 million per unit, depending on the type and generation, while a new capability could potentially be established within four years.

Estonia currently operates two leased Czech-built Aero L-39 Albatros jet trainers, primarily used to train air intercept controllers and joint terminal attack controllers. Herem has suggested that smaller jet-powered aircraft, potentially crewed or uncrewed, could provide a more affordable alternative to deploying advanced fighter jets against Russian long-range attack drones.

The requirement reflects the increasing use of jet-powered drones in Ukraine, which can travel significantly faster than conventional propeller-driven systems. Former Estonian Air Force commander Vello Loemaa said suitable light aircraft could engage drones traveling at speeds ranging from just over 100 km/h to approximately 600 km/h.

According to Loemaa, Estonia already has pilots capable of operating such aircraft, but additional training would be required for air-to-air engagements. Establishing the necessary operational capability could take one to two years, including specialized pilot training and integration with existing air defense systems.

The proposed aircraft would need to operate within Estonia's broader air defense network, requiring coordination with ground-based systems, air surveillance assets and command-and-control infrastructure.

Herem indicated that procurement could take place within four years or sooner, although the aircraft type, acquisition schedule, operating locations and funding arrangements remain undecided.

Estonia has considered developing its own light fighter capability for decades, but financial constraints have prevented implementation. The latest discussions come as Baltic governments seek more cost-effective ways to counter increasingly sophisticated aerial threats.

No formal procurement decision, tender or supplier selection has been announced.