My 7 months in Estonia on a NATO mission
I’m Lance Corporal Kuhn, part of 1 Mercian Regiment. I’ve been deployed on Operation CABRIT for the last 7 months. I’ve been running around Estonia on various exercises, conducting live firing and testing my battle skills.
I have been out here for 7 months now and for the most part, I have done various blank and live exercises. I particularly enjoyed the live exercise going through woodland terrain.
The biggest challenge out here has been integrating the fighting style In Estonia.
Estonia is majority woodlands, so as an armoured infantry battalion it is hard to overcome that obstacle. We have gone more to our light role roots and spent more time dismounted — spending more time on foot, with lighter equipment and weapons.
Over 800 UK personnel alongside 300 from France are supporting the Estonian 1st infantry brigade. Combining armoured infantry, armour and artillery, it is supported by Estonian based air assets to provide a defence and deterrence force.
The battlegroups presence underlines NATO’s commitment to the collective defence of the Alliance and the continued stability of the region.
Being on tour is much different than being at home, it is much more action-packed, we get live firing packages which are not on offer back in the UK. We are always working and working hard. Everyone here is working to a high standard. Being out here gives us a chance to improve our fitness.
Out here in Estonia, I did not expect us to have such a close relationship with the locals — we have been out on vehicle stands, getting mixed in with locals and winning over their hearts and minds.
When I left school I was a cleaner for 3 months, I then thought to better my life and join the British Army. I haven't looked back since. At 16 (going on 17) I left for Harrogate where I focused on my basic soldier skills. A year later I moved to Catterick to move onto my infantry skills — which I really enjoyed.
Going forward I hope to pass a promotion course, which will mean I’n eligible for my Corporal.
Find out where else the UK Armed Forces are deployed here:
