February 28, 2023
U.S. Ambassador to Estonia George P. Kent and Brigadier General Brad Nicholson, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command, visited the Tapa Base today to meet with U.S. forces stationed there, as well as members of the Estonian Defense Forces and NATO Battle Group. During their visit, Ambassador Kent and Brigadier General Nicholson were joined by Colonel Andrus Merilo, Commander of the Estonian Defense Forces’ 1st Infantry Brigade.
“The United States is proud to be a partner and ally as we strengthen Estonia’s security and enhance collective defense and deterrence across the region,” said U.S. Ambassador to Estonia George P. Kent. “It was my pleasure to meet with U.S. service members today, as well as members of the Estonian Defense Forces and NATO Battlegroup based in Tapa, who are demonstrating this enduring partnership.”
During the visit to Tapa, Ambassador Kent and Brigadier General Nicholson received briefings from U.S., Estonian, and NATO units, and had the opportunity to learn more about the joint trainings that take place to bolster readiness and improve interoperability between NATO Allies.
“Observing combined training with U.S., Estonian and other NATO troops today was a visual testament of the unwavering alliance we share with Estonia and NATO. The United States continues to stand as an ally with Estonia in defending our collective security,” said Brigadier General Brad Nicholson, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command.
Since December 2022, the United States has deployed HIMARS multiple-launch rocket systems and an infantry company to Estonia. These forces are part of the near-persistent deployment of U.S. forces and capabilities to Estonia, as a part of our commitment to strengthening our collective defense and deterrence posture on NATO’s eastern flank.
