Estonia to order loitering munitions in one of its largest military purchases

Estonia is set to order a "significant quantity" of so-called loitering munitions, to be delivered in 2024, to increase the distance of its attacks.

Source: Reuters with reference to Estonian Defence Ministry

Details: Estonia previously reported that they believe Russia still has the strength to exert "credible military pressure" on the Baltic region, where the security risk has risen for the medium and long-term.

The loitering munitions, also called "kamikaze drones", cruise towards their target before descending shapely in flight and detonating on impact.

The purchase of an unspecified number, set to be one of the largest in Estonia's history, is expected to be concluded this quarter.

According to the Defence Ministry, it is being made "in order to significantly increase [Estonian – ed.] indirect fire capability as a consequence of Russian aggression".

Lloyd Austin, US Defence Secretary, reiterated on Thursday that the United States was ready to defend the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania if required, and will keep its military presence in the region.

Background: Estonia proposed EU countries to invest about 4 billion euros to jointly procure the 1 million rounds of ammunition that Ukraine needs this year to repel the Russian invasion.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!