Igor Schvede is an Estonian military leader and senior defence expert who has significantly influenced Estonia’s naval forces and international defence relations. Schvede began his military education at the Leningrad Nakhimov Naval School, followed by advanced training at the Frunze Naval Academy in Saint Petersburg. Schvede joined the Estonian Defence Forces in 1993 and was involved in the re-establishment of the Estonian Navy following the country’s regained independence. Throughout his career he commanded various naval vessels and units, including patrol craft and mine countermeasure squadrons, contributing to the development of Estonia’s maritime defence capabilities. From 2007 to 2012, he served as Commander of the Estonian Navy, overseeing operational readiness and strategic planning. Schvede subsequently held senior staff positions, including Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations) and Chief of Staff of the Estonian Defence Forces Headquarters. In August 2016, he was appointed as Estonia’s Military Representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union, where he represented national defence interests and strengthened allied cooperation. He was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral in February 2020 in recognition of his distinguished service. Schvede has also contributed to defence policy development and intergovernmental military coordination. After transitioning to the reserve, he has been active in public service and advisory roles within Estonia’s Ministry of Defence. His professional experience spans naval operations, strategic defence planning, and international military diplomacy, reflecting a career dedicated to advancing Estonia’s security and defence cooperation.