NATO Member Strengthens Military Capabilities Amid Regional Tensions
Estonia, a NATO member and neighbour to Russia, is significantly enhancing its defense capabilities through the acquisition of an advanced U.S. rocket artillery system, marking the largest arms procurement project in the Baltic nation’s history, defense officials announced on Saturday.
The deal, signed on Friday, involves the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and is valued at over $200 million. This comprehensive package includes essential equipment such as ammunition, rockets, and training support.
According to the Estonian Center for Defense Investment, the HIMARS rockets have a range of 70 to 300 kilometres (43 to 186 miles). Lockheed Martin Corp. is anticipated to begin deliveries in 2024. While the exact number of rocket launchers was not disclosed by Estonian officials, local media reports suggest that the purchase involves six HIMARS units.
“The HIMARS multiple rocket launchers represent a significant advancement in Estonia’s defense capabilities,” stated Lt. Col. Kaarel Mäesalu, head of capability development at the Estonian Defense Forces. “This system enables us to effectively engage the enemy even before our infantry units make contact.”
Estonia’s Baltic neighbours, Latvia and Lithuania, either possess or are in the process of acquiring their own HIMARS systems, reflecting a regional trend towards bolstering military preparedness.
The U.S. has supplied Ukraine with similar rocket launchers in response to Russia’s invasion, and the Estonian Defense Ministry noted that HIMARS systems have been instrumental in targeting Russian military assets, including ammunition depots, transport hubs, and command centres, with high precision beyond the reach of traditional howitzers employed by Ukraine.
