“When preparing the procurement, we were guided by best practices, i.e., we signed a large contract with a total of 11 different suppliers, thus ensuring that we could urgently procure explosives, different types of explosive charges and much more. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the demand for ammunition increased sharply across Europe, after which we became convinced that the presence of a large number of contractual partners would give us an advantage in the case of urgent deliveries. If one of the contractual partners encounters problems making deliveries, we have the opportunity to immediately place an order with another contractual partner,” said Ramil Lipp, Strategic Category Manager (Weapon Systems and Ammunition) at the ECDI.
The procurement was concluded jointly with the Lithuanian State, the Police and Border Guard Board, and the Rescue Board.
“Joint procurements with other countries and institutions give us the opportunity to consolidate the needs of different parties and achieve price savings. The jointly procured combat equipment also strengthens allied ties and enables cross-use and support for each other within the country,” Lipp added.
The procurement is divided into two parts. In the first part of the procurement, explosives and explosive substances will be procured from nine different suppliers from Estonia and other countries. For example, plastic explosives, blasting machines, detonators, etc., are procured. In the second part of the procurement, explosive charges, mines and their components are procured, with contracts having been awarded to 11 suppliers. For example, it is possible to obtain various types of explosive charges, anti-tank mines with various detonator options, etc.
“The importance of explosives and mines has not disappeared from modern warfare. On the contrary, the war in Ukraine confirms their continued effectiveness and indicates the need to both replenish stocks and to introduce more modern solutions. The procurement contract contains important explosive substances to be used in both preventing the progress of the adversary in defensive battles and to create passages through the opponent’s barriers in counterattacks,” said Lieutenant Colonel Priit Heinloo, Commander of the Combat Engineer Battalion of the 1 st Infantry Brigade of the Defence Forces.
