According to the Defence Forces, an unmanned aerial device probably of Ukrainian origin entered the Estonian airspace in Southeast Estonia from the direction of Russia and headed towards Central Estonia.
The threat was intercepted by the F-16 fighter jets of the Romanian air security unit that is currently serving in Šiauliai, Lithuania and was on a training flight at the time. The drone was shot down at 12.14.
Before the decision was made to shoot down the drone, it was monitored by air surveillance. The Defence Forces are basing their actions on peacetime environment, which includes the mitigation of the effects on the civilian population and infrastructure.
The operation was led by the Latvian Air Operations Control Centre.
Under the guidance of the prosecutor’s office, the Estonian Internal Security Service has initiated criminal proceedings to determine the circumstances of the incident.
What should you do if you find a potential attack or intelligence drone?
- Do not approach it! Act as you would when you find an explosive device – any unknown object could be dangerous.
- Notify the Emergency Response Centre by calling 112 immediately!
- Move away from the object to ensure your safety and warn the people nearby as well. Do not allow anyone near the object found.
- Do not share the location of the object in social media – this way you are preventing the gathering of curious people at the scene and reducing the danger for other people.
