Estonia orders additional HIMARS systems from Lockheed Martin, expanding strike capability and industry investment

The acquisition is intended to strengthen Estonia’s long-range strike capability and support NATO defense planning. The additional systems are scheduled to be delivered in 2027.

Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur emphasized the operational importance of the systems. “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.”

“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 builds on earlier deliveries of HIMARS systems to Estonia. Six systems were delivered last year as part of ongoing cooperation with Lockheed Martin.

The agreement also includes provisions to support Estonia’s domestic defense industry. It предусматриes the development of local capabilities for maintaining HIMARS components.

Janari Kasemets, Category Manager for Combat Platforms at the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments, outlined the industrial benefits. “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,” he said.

Kasemets also noted the regional scope of the initiative. “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 HIMARS system provides precision strike capabilities at ranges exceeding 300 kilometers. Its interoperability allows integration with NATO and allied systems.

The platform can be rapidly deployed and supports a wide range of mission profiles. The additional systems are expected to enhance both national and allied operational capabilities.