Estonia launches defence industry support program to aid Armed Forces of Ukraine

By Defence Industry Europe

The Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI) has announced a new support measure to provide targeted assistance to Ukraine's defence forces. The program invites Estonian-registered companies to offer products or services designed for use in crises and wartime.

 

This initiative is part of Estonia’s broader commitment to Ukraine, which includes direct military aid, personnel training, and leadership in the IT coalition supporting Ukraine. “We have committed to supporting Ukraine in its fight against the aggressor with at least 0.25% of our GDP. Additionally, we aim to procure aid from Estonia’s defence industry,” stated Hanno Pevkur, Estonia’s Minister of Defence.

The program prioritises products or services already developed, marketed, and specifically suited for military use. Eligible items must be manufactured in Estonia, with at least 30% of their production sourced locally. The initiative aims to bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities while fostering Estonia’s own defence industry.

“Our support for Ukraine is based on their military needs and Estonia’s capabilities. Our goal is to help Ukraine win the war while simultaneously fostering the development of Estonia’s defence industry,” said Katri Raudsepp, Deputy Director General of the ECDI.

 

 

According to Kalev Koidumäe, Executive Director of the Estonian Defence and Aerospace Industry Association, the measure will accelerate innovation within Estonia’s defence sector. “Today, unmanned platforms, surveillance systems, and other equipment developed and manufactured by Estonian defence industry companies are already in use by Ukraine’s armed forces and security structures. These tools have proven to be reliable and effective on the battlefield,” he said.

Applications will be reviewed by a committee comprising representatives from key Estonian ministries and agencies. Full eligibility criteria for the program will be detailed on the ECDI website, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all potential participants.

 

Source: Estonian Centre for Defence Investment.

 

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