Estonia Bolsters Defense Arsenal with Turkish Armored Vehicles Worth $211 Million

Estonia’s commitment to military modernization has taken a significant step forward as the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI) has inked contracts with Turkish manufacturers Otokar and Nurol Makina for approximately 230 armored vehicles, at a total cost of around $211 million (€200 million).

These newly acquired armored vehicles will cater to the 2nd Infantry Brigade of the Defence Forces, which has not previously had wheeled armored vehicles. Additionally, Estonia will bolster its 1st Infantry Brigade and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Centre of the Estonian Rescue Board with additional armored vehicles.

Armored Vehicles
Eurosatory visitors walk past the booth of Turkish manufacturer Otokar near Paris in 2022. The company is on tap to sell its Arma wheeled vehicles to Estonia. (Emmanuel Dunand/AFP via Getty Images)

Nurol Makina will supply Estonia with its robust NMS four-wheel-drive vehicles, while Otokar will deliver the Arma six-wheel-drive vehicles. Otokar’s contract is estimated to be worth about €130 million, covering maintenance, equipment, and training. Deliveries are set to commence in the second half of 2024, with completion expected by 2025.

These vehicles will be equipped with various features, including 12.7 mm heavy machine guns and smoke grenade launchers, enhancing Estonia’s defense capabilities.

Nine companies from six different countries participated in the bidding process, which highlights Estonia’s keen interest in bolstering its defense capabilities and supporting the modernization of its military.

These contracts have a duration of 10 years and offer Estonia the flexibility to procure additional vehicles and spare parts, further strengthening the nation’s defense infrastructure. This investment signifies Estonia’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities in response to evolving security concerns in the region. #Estonia #MilitaryModernization #ArmoredVehicles #DefenseCapabilities

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