On March 16, members of the Estonian government backed the proposal by Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur to send another package of military assistance to Ukraine, this time consisting of, among other things, sniper rifles and special forces equipment.
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Sako TRG-42 sniper rifle currently in service with the Estonian army (Picture source: Sako)
‘Yesterday, during the Ramstein format meeting with our allies, we discussed the current state of aid to Ukraine, and it is clear that there is no time left to lose in supporting Ukraine. Our major initiative is aimed at the joint procurement of a million artillery shells by the European Union, but smaller, precisely targeted aid packages must also be continued. Hence today’s decision to direct this aid package, as a continuation of the previous one, specifically at special forces equipment and snipers,’ said Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur.
Estonia’s newest assistance package includes semi-automatic rifles, sniper rifles, sights, binoculars, ammunition, individual and special equipment, patrol boats, and thermal cameras. In addition, medical equipment is being donated. The total value of the military aid is EUR 494,300. By donating equipment, the training and wartime capabilities of the Defence Forces do not suffer.
Estonia has provided nearly EUR 400 million, or more than 1% of GDP, worth of military assistance to Ukraine. Previous donations have included missiles for the Javelin anti-tank missile system, howitzers, anti-tank mines, anti-tank grenade launchers, mortars, vehicles, communication equipment, medical supplies, personal protective equipment (helmets, etc.) and dry food packages. In cooperation with Germany, Estonia has donated two field hospitals and medical supplies worth nearly EUR 15 million to Ukraine. Estonia is donating a third field hospital to Ukraine in cooperation with the Netherlands and Norway, which provided EUR 7.8 million in support for the project.
The Ministry of Defence plans to submit the donated equipment for compensation through the European Peace Facility, from which, based on the decisions taken so far, Estonia will receive compensation in the amount of EUR 156 million.
Defense News March 2023
