Estonia to Procure Additional HIMARS Launchers and Ammunition

The Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI) and US defence company Lockheed Martin have signed a contract for the procurement of three additional HIMARS multiple rocket systems. The agreement also includes an investment of approximately USD 11 million into Estonia’s defence industry.

“Additional HIMARS systems will ensure the deep-strike capability required by the Estonian Defence Forces and NATO, significantly strengthening both our national defence capability and deterrence. Expanding cooperation with Lockheed Martin will also directly support the development of Estonia’s defence industry,” said Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur.

Last spring, the first six HIMARS rocket systems purchased from Lockheed Martin were delivered to Estonia. The acquisition of three additional systems and additional ammunition continues Estonia’s cooperation with the world’s largest arms manufacturer.

“This is a deliberate and long-term effort that supports the implementation of NATO defence plans. Equally important is Lockheed Martin’s direct investment in Estonia, as such investments in national defence and the defence industry make Estonia as a whole more secure,” Pevkur added.

The contract with Lockheed Martin will also support the involvement of the local defence industry. “In addition to rocket systems and ammunition, the new agreement includes an investment in Estonia’s defence industry, resulting in the establishment of HIMARS component maintenance capability in Estonia, to be provided by local companies,” said Janari Kasemets, Category Manager for Combat Platforms at the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI).

According to Kasemets, it is encouraging that Lockheed Martin is prepared to involve local companies. “The USD 11 million investment in Estonia will be combined, at Lockheed Martin’s initiative, with investments in neighbouring countries such as Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Finland, in order to build broader regional expertise and ensure the availability of required services locally,” he added.

The mobile and combat-proven HIMARS system provides advanced capabilities, including precision strike weapons, enabling support for integrated fire missions against point or area targets at ranges exceeding 300 kilometres. Thanks to its high level of interoperability with NATO and allied systems, HIMARS can be easily integrated and rapidly deployed as required.

The additional HIMARS rocket systems are scheduled to arrive in Estonia in 2027.