KAS KA VÄIKERIIGID VAJAVAD TASAKAALUS LAEVASTIKKU?

DO SMALL STATES NEED A BALANCED FLEET?

Abstract

For a coastal state, the maritime domain presents opportunities as well as dangers that cannot be ignored. To defend its sovereignty and interests at sea, a coastal state needs maritime forces that can at least display its presence at sea and act as a tripwire against definite forces. This becomes especially important at a grey zone between peace and war. For a small state, there is no clear distinction between internal and external security within a maritime domain, and the line between war and peace is becoming increasingly fuzzier. A balanced fleet that is able to operate through a whole conflict spectre and maintain at least some capabilities in all principal warfare areas is the best solution for maintaining the sovereignty of a state and protecting its interests at sea. To create a balanced fleet, a navy requires a fair share of the (defence) budget. Small states have some inherit problems regarding the establishment and maintenance of a capable fleet, especially shortness of financial and human recourses but also lack of knowledge; however, abolishing a navy or degrading it to a niche navy is not an advisable solution. It way may seem efficient to sacrifice the protection of national maritime interests, but in no way does it support an independent defence capability of a state. Avoiding duplications and factionalism, promoting intra- and interstate cooperation and jointness, and combining it with a conscious innovation should make the maintenance of a balanced fleet affordable even for a small state. All in all, there are no credible alternatives to developing a balanced fleet, even for a small coastal state.