The Blue Spear 5G SSM, the Estonian Defence Forces’ latest addition, is a cutting-edge missile system engineered for optimal performance under all combat conditions. It boasts day-and-night, all-weather capability, with a striking range of up to 290 kilometres. Its advanced targeting capabilities, leveraging active radar guidance, precision navigation, and a hardened communication network, render it resilient against electronic countermeasures.
“The acquisition of anti-ship missiles is of critical importance for raising the level of the Navy’s and, more broadly, Estonia’s defence capabilities. We have reached another significant milestone, which is necessary for ensuring the security of the people of Estonia and for defending the country at sea, on land, and in the air. The presence of Blue Spears in the Navy significantly increases the firing range of the Estonian Defence Forces and strengthens deterrence against a potential aggressor,” said Estonian Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur.
“The Blue Spear 5G anti-ship missile system, together with sea mines, forms the cornerstone of Estonian maritime defence for the coming decades. I thank the contracting partners and the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments, who have adhered to deadlines and made significant efforts despite difficult times. I thank the naval personnel who have shown determination, patience, and willpower in commissioning both mentioned weapon systems,” said the commander of the Estonian Navy, Commodore Jüri Saska.
The anti-ship missiles were supplied to Estonia by Proteus Advanced Systems, a joint venture between two companies, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and ST Engineering Land Systems from Singapore. “We are honored to equip the Estonian Defence Forces with Blue Spear type missiles,” said Ron Tryfus, CEO of Proteus Advanced Systems. “With this, the Estonian Navy has acquired a high-tech defence capability, a next-generation land-to-land missile system developed in cooperation between two companies, IAI and ST Engingeering Land Systems,” he added.
The Estonian government decided on the missile system’s funding in 2020, and a contract between the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI) and Proteus Advanced Systems was signed in 2021. “I want to thank our contracting partner, who has respected their international obligations and stood by the promise that the missile system would arrive on time,” said Ramil Lipp, ECDI’s Strategic Category Manager.
The project also involves the Estonian defence industry company Pro Lift OÜ, which carried out the vehicle modifications suitable for the missile system.
