Training assemblies

A training assembly is a military training event aimed at:

reviewing and supplementing previously acquired knowledge and skills;
practicing unit cooperation and preparing to increase military readiness.

Calling up and organizing the training assembly

You will be called up for a training assembly at least 120 days before it begins. Although the summons is sent by the Defence Forces, the Defence Resources Agency (KRA) handles the preparation of summonses, answering questions, managing exemptions, and providing support and compensation after the training assembly.

Therefore, Defence Forces summonses may include KRA contact details (phone number or email). If a question concerns a specific Defence Forces unit, it will be forwarded to the relevant commander, and you will be informed about this.

Training assemblies vary in nature, but the process typically starts with receiving the summons about 120 days prior to the assembly. On the first day, the summoned unit is formed, and on the last day, it is disbanded.

For more information about the training assembly, you can contact the persons listed on the summons or use the general contact details: 800 25 25, 717 0700, or [email protected].

Additional training assembly

An additional training assembly is the state’s way to check the mobilisation readiness of Defence Forces wartime units.

Speed is crucial for achieving mobilisation readiness, so additional training assemblies usually take place in situations with limited prior information and require well-planned and effective action at all levels.

The number of reservists participating and the duration of the assembly are established by a Government order. Based on this, the Defence Forces decide whom to call up and where to deploy them. The Defence Resources Agency (KRA) then prepares the summonses and coordinates their delivery to reservists.

After issuing the summonses, KRA remains on heightened alert to communicate with reservists to ensure adequate information flow between parties.

For a reservist, the additional training assembly is part of reserve service, during which the benefits and obligations established by the Defence Service Act apply.

Voluntary participation in a training assembly

It is possible to participate voluntarily in a training assembly if you submit a written application at least 30 days before the start of the assembly via the Defence Service website or by email to [email protected]. If your request is denied, the Defence Forces will inform you at least 15 days before the assembly begins.

What to bring to the training assembly?

Bring the items and documents listed on your summons. The exact list can be found on the training assembly summons.

Generally required:

Identification document – ID card or Estonian citizen’s passport; if available, also driver’s license and security clearance certificate (or a copy).
Personal identification tag with identification code (if available).
Bank account number (IBAN) – preferably entered in the Defence Service web system before the training assembly.
Individual equipment and weapon issued by the Defence Forces or Defence League (if available).
Personal hygiene items.
At least two pairs of underwear and socks.
Sportswear and running shoes for the physical fitness test (KVKT).

Optional items to bring:

Pocket knife, headlamp, etc.
Cash at your discretion.

Prohibited items:

Weapons and ammunition.
Explosives, pyrotechnics, explosive and flammable substances.
Hazardous chemicals and toxic substances.
Medications not permitted by the unit medic.
Alcohol, narcotics, and psychotropic substances.
Gambling devices.