Estonia Advances Plans for Second HIMARS Acquisition, Targeting 2028-2029 Delivery

Estonia Confirms Intent for Additional HIMARS Systems

Estonia has announced its intention to proceed with a second acquisition of six M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) from the United States. The delivery of these advanced multiple rocket launchers is projected to occur between 2028 and 2029, further enhancing the Baltic nation's defense capabilities. This move underscores Estonia's commitment to strengthening its long-range precision strike capacity amidst evolving regional security dynamics.

Context of Estonia's First HIMARS Acquisition

This planned second purchase builds upon Estonia's initial acquisition of HIMARS. Tallinn first signed an agreement for six HIMARS units in December 2022, a deal valued at over $200 million. The first tranche of these launchers was delivered to Estonia in April 2025, marking a significant upgrade in the country's military arsenal. The comprehensive package included not only the rocket launchers but also various munitions with ranges from 70 to 300 kilometers, secure communications systems, logistical support, and training. A substantial portion of the initial deal, $140.5 million, was financed through U.S. military aid, highlighting the strong bilateral defense cooperation between Estonia and the United States.

Details of the Upcoming Second Procurement

Estonian Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur confirmed the country's desire for six additional HIMARS, and potentially more, during the Halifax International Security Forum. Estonia has secured the necessary funding for this acquisition and is in contact with prime contractor Lockheed Martin. The procurement requires approval from the Pentagon for a Foreign Military Sale (FMS). The proposed package for the second acquisition is expected to include a substantial quantity of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) munitions, including M30A2, M31A2, and extended-range XM403 and XM404 variants, as well as MGM-140 M57 ATACMS ballistic missiles. The total value of the potential package has been estimated at up to $4.23 billion, though the final value of FMS agreements is often lower than initial estimates.

Strategic Importance and Broader Defense Investments

The acquisition of additional HIMARS systems is a key component of Estonia's broader strategy to enhance its defense capabilities, particularly its deep strike potential. Estonia has significantly increased its defense spending, allocating at least 3.3% of its GDP to national defense annually between 2025 and 2028, positioning it among the top NATO allies in terms of defense expenditure. The total defense budget for this period is set at €5.6 billion, with an additional €1.6 billion allocated for long-range ammunition procurement until 2031. Beyond HIMARS, Estonia is also diversifying its long-range strike capabilities, having inked a deal in late October for K239 Chunmoo rocket launchers from South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace. These investments are part of a comprehensive four-year defense investment plan aimed at bolstering air defense, ammunition stockpiles, and unmanned systems, aligning with NATO capability targets and responding to the evolving security landscape.