Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, French Air Force General Stephane Abrial travelled to Estonia for a country visit as well as getting an assessment on the Countering Hybrid Threats-Experiment (CHT-E) and while there, he toured the Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCoE).

This visit took place during the 20th anniversary of the “Singing Revolution”, a time of significant importance to Abrial.

During his visit, Abrial had an office call with Estonian President, H.E. Toomas Hendrik Ilves where they talked about cyber security challenges facing allied armed forces.

“As Chief of NATO Transformation, I want to ensure we will survive through the next strategic surprise,” Abrial said.

Abrial also met with the Estonian Minister of Defense H.E. Mart Laar and discussed with him the Countering Hybrid Threats-Experiment currently taking place in Estonia.

“I sincerely thank all involved, encourage them to continue their superb work and assure them of Allied Command Transformation’s full support in their contribution to an essential NATO capability,” Abrial stated.

Following the office call with the Minister of Defense, Abrial met with Lieutenant General Ants Laaneots, Commander of the Estonian Defense Forces.

After this meetings, Abrial attended the Countering Hybrid Threats VIP Day Program where he received assessments about the ongoing work during the Experiment.

In conclusion of the visit to this Northernmost of the Baltic States, Abrial and Laar planted a tree by the Estonian Armed Forces Headquarters – to symbolize Abrial’s first visit to Estonia.