On Friday, Director General of the State Defence Investment Center (RKIK) Magnus-Waldemar Saar signed an agreement with the US Defence and Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) for the purchase of HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems.

Weapons systems will be purchased from the United States, weapons manufacturer – Lockheed Martin. The total value of the contract is more than $200 million, according to a press release from RKIK.

This is the largest defence purchase in Estonian history. “As part of the agreement, in addition to multiple launch rocket systems, Estonia will also purchase ammunition and communications equipment. The agreement also includes resolving issues related to training and logistics. The package also includes various missiles with a range of 70 to 300 kilometres”, – said Ramil Lipp, Head of the Armaments Department of the Center for Defence Investments.

“HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems are a new and important step in the development of Estonia’s defence capabilities, which make it possible to decisively influence the enemy even before he comes into contact with our infantry units. This is a standard NATO system that promotes comprehensive cooperation with other allies in the alliance,” said Lieutenant Colonel Kaarel Mäesalu, head of the department of the General Staff of the Defence Forces.

The HIMARS systems have also been deployed by Ukraine against Russia since the start of the invasion in February. 

Latvia and Lithuania will also buy HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems from the US. The first deliveries are expected in 2024.