The Estonian Ministry of Defense and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) have finalized a contract to supply attack aircraft for the Estonian armed forces. The deal represents a major milestone in Estonia’s defense modernization program and is reported by DEA News citing the Estonian defense press service.
Unveiled in Tallinn, the purchase stands as one of the most significant and costly defense acquisitions in the country, with a total value exceeding 100 million euros. The investment underscores Estonia’s commitment to strengthening its security posture amid regional challenges and evolving defense needs.
During the contract event, a demonstration model of the Mini Harop unmanned system was showcased. Boaz Levy, chairman of IAI, described the drone as part of a new generation of aerial platforms featuring advanced electronic-optical guidance capable of precise operation in both daylight and night conditions. Levy added that Estonia is a strategic partner for IAI and that the agreement signals an increasing level of trust and cooperation between Tallinn and the Israeli company.
Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur indicated that training for the Estonian military on the Israeli drones will take place both within Estonia and potentially in Israel before the delivery schedule. The first batch of attack drones is planned to arrive in Estonia in 2024, marking the start of a broader capability enhancement for the armed forces.
Earlier reports noted the creation of the State Defense Investment Center, a unit under the Estonian Ministry of Defense, which has also signed a contract with the Finnish firm Sako for sniper rifles valued at 40 million euros. This development reflects Estonia’s multi-vendor approach to modernizing its defense capabilities and diversifying its supply chain for critical equipment.