On June 17, the Ministry of Defense recognized Estonian companies that have made a significant contribution to national defense by maintaining the income of reserve forces during training exercises and supporting national defense in various ways.
Prime Minister Kristen Michal emphasized this when presenting this year’s awards: “Even the strongest forces need a strong rear guard – people and organizations that support them. The willingness and ability of reservists to participate in training exercises depends largely on whether their employers continue to pay their salaries during this time or allow flexible working arrangements. It is precisely this kind of support that gives reservists the confidence to participate in training exercises, knowing that their families are taken care of and their jobs are waiting for them.”
Kaimo Kuusk, Chancellor of the Ministry of Defense, added: “Our security depends on our people and our reservists. It is therefore extremely important that our reservists feel that they are supported. They should be able to attend training sessions with peace of mind, without worrying that their financial situation will deteriorate while they are contributing to national defense.“
This year, 517 employers received the ”Supporters of National Defense” award, including Metrosert. Metrosert’s contribution is that the company maintains the full salary of employees participating in training during the entire training period. This is important so that people can focus on training without having to worry about their families or income.
In addition to maintaining salaries, Metrosert also contributed to this year’s training by developing drone technology. Drone specialists from Metrosert’s applied research center participated in the SIIL 25 defense force training exercise, where modern and future-oriented solutions were practiced.
Nearly 40 drone teams from 14 countries participated in the exercise. Metrosert’s drone team had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the DELTA battlefield integration platform and see firsthand how international cooperation and combat experience lead to rapid innovation. “Such practical experience provides us with valuable input for bringing the latest knowledge to the development of new technologies and supporting the design of future research and development programs,” said Rainer Kivimäe, Head of Drone Technologies at Metrosert.
Metrosert would like to thank all of its employees and partners and confirms that it will continue to contribute to Estonia’s national defense through both people and new technologies.
Recipients of the award at the reception. Photo: Arno Mikkor