Defence training area expansion challenged legal practice

Defence training area expansion is a key project to create modern training and exercise opportunities for the Estonian Defence Forces and NATO allied forces. Ellex in Estonia advised the state, acting through the Estonian Centre for Defence Investment, on the expansion of a defence training area by up to 10,000 hectares.

The project involved extensive environmental and impact assessments as well as the development of mitigation measures aimed at reducing disruptions for local communities. The advisory work also covered potential support mechanisms for local authorities and compensation measures for residents affected by the expansion.

The matter is particularly significant because it concerns the first military facility in Estonia to be developed under a special accelerated procedure and without planning procedures and a full environmental impact assessment under the applicable statutory derogation. The implementation of the project has raised a number of novel legal questions for which there is no established precedent in Estonian case law.

As of May 2026, the Estonian Government’s decision approving the expansion has been challenged before the administrative courts. Ellex in Estonia represents the Government in the ongoing proceedings.

The project team included partner Toomas Vaher, counsel Siim Vahtrus, and senior associate Kaisa Jakobsoo.