Prime Minister Kristen Michal said that crises always arrive unexpectedly. “Today, crises may no longer stem solely from accidents, technological risks or severe weather conditions. They may also result from deliberate actions aimed at destabilising states. By regularly practising crisis response, we strengthen our collective resilience. When we know what to do and whom we can rely on, we are able to overcome whatever challenges come our way. Joint exercises involving Estonia’s security authorities and partners send a clear message: preparedness leaves no room for fear,” said Michal.
According to the exercise scenario, an explosion occurred in an apartment building in the town of Lihula on Monday morning. Video footage from the scene was displayed in the simulation room of the exercise control centre, where Prime Minister Kristen Michal made the pre-arranged call to 112 based on what he observed. The call triggered an urban search and rescue exercise and marked the start of the ILVES main exercise week. Shortly thereafter, the Prime Minister was able to observe the arrival of the first rescue units via drone footage.
In reality, no explosion took place in Lihula. Instead, the Estonian Rescue Services Agency had already carried out a controlled demolition of the apartment building on Friday. Following the exercise, the building will be completely demolished in agreement with the local municipality.
LYNX 2026 is one of Estonia’s largest crisis management exercises. It is organised by the Government Office of Estonia in cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior and other partner organisations. In addition to state authorities, participants include local municipalities, providers of vital services and civil society organisations, bringing together approximately 150 organisations in total.
The exercise is based on a scenario in which Estonia must respond to non-military attacks and influence operations conducted by a hostile state. These include attempts to destabilise the country and society by disrupting everyday life and creating confusion, fear and uncertainty through activities such as mass public disorder, information operations and organised explosions.
The exercise focuses on how government agencies, local municipalities, businesses and communities would act within their respective roles and in cooperation with one another to respond rapidly and in a coordinated manner, provide clear and reliable information, maintain public order and safety, and ensure the continuity of vital services.
Particularly during the main exercise period (8–12 June), members of the public may notice increased activity by public authorities or receive notifications related to the exercise. In locations where exercise activities extend into public spaces, local residents will be informed in advance and all necessary safety measures will be implemented. Additional information is available at kriis.ee.
ILVES 2026 is a long-planned exercise, with preparations having been underway for nearly a year. The exercise does not indicate any immediate threat nor does it reflect an increase in the threat level. Such exercises are a routine part of state preparedness, helping to improve readiness for crises and strengthen cooperation between organisations. Preparedness is a shared responsibility across society and requires continuous practice.
