Military Equipment Used By EDF: In the ever-changing landscape of global security, the Estonian Defence Forces (EDF) emerge as a beacon of cutting-edge military prowess. Nestled in the Baltic region, Estonia stands resilient against evolving threats, thanks to its commitment to modernizing its armed forces. This blog offers a concise yet insightful overview of the state-of-the-art military equipment employed by the EDF, showcasing Estonia’s dedication to staying at the forefront of defense technology.
From advanced infantry weaponry to sophisticated armored vehicles, aerial capabilities, and naval assets, the EDF leverages a diverse arsenal. As we delve into the specifics, we will unravel the strategic choices guiding Estonia’s military modernization. International partnerships and indigenous innovation play pivotal roles in shaping the nation’s defense capabilities, ensuring adaptability in the face of both conventional and asymmetrical challenges.
List Of Equipment Of The Estonian Defence Forces
Anti-tank weapons
Carl Gustav: The Carl Gustav is a versatile and widely used recoilless rifle system designed for anti-tank warfare. Introduced in 1948, it has evolved into a multi-role weapon, capable of firing various ammunition types. Renowned for its effectiveness, portability, and adaptability, the Carl Gustav remains a key asset for military forces worldwide.
Instalaza C90: The Instalaza C90 is a Spanish-made, man-portable, disposable anti-tank rocket launcher. Introduced in the 1980s, it’s designed for infantry use against armored vehicles. Compact and lightweight, the C90 is known for its simplicity and effectiveness. Its portability and ease of use make it a valuable asset for military and paramilitary forces.
Javelin: The Javelin is a third-generation, man-portable, fire-and-forget infrared-guided missile system used for anti-tank warfare. Introduced by the United States in the late 1990s, it is a shoulder-fired weapon known for its precision and versatility. The Javelin has played a crucial role in modern military conflicts, providing effective anti-armor capabilities.
Spike: Spike is a family of Israeli anti-tank guided missiles designed for infantry, vehicle, and helicopter use. Introduced in the 1990s, it offers variants with various ranges and target-tracking capabilities. Spike’s adaptability, fire-and-forget functionality, and advanced technology make it a prominent choice for many armed forces around the world.
Air-defence equipment
ZU-23-2: The ZU-23-2 is a Soviet-made, towed, twin-barreled anti-aircraft gun system introduced in the 1960s. It features dual 23mm autocannons and is widely used for air defense against low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and drones. Known for its simplicity, mobility, and firepower, the ZU-23-2 remains in service with numerous military forces globally.
PPZR Piorun:
Mistral: The Mistral is a man-portable, infrared-guided surface-to-air missile system designed for air defense against aircraft, helicopters, and drones. Developed by the European company MBDA, Mistral is known for its portability, versatility, and effectiveness. It has been widely adopted by various military forces around the world since its introduction in the 1980s.
IRIS-T SLM: The IRIS-T Surface Launched Module (SLM) is an air-defense system based on the IRIS-T air-to-air missile. Designed for ground-based operations, it provides anti-aircraft capabilities against a variety of threats. With infrared homing and high maneuverability, the IRIS-T SLM is adaptable for short to medium-range air defense and has been integrated into various military platforms.
Anti-ship weapons
Blue Spear:
Grenades
m/56: The m/56 hand grenade is a Swedish fragmentation grenade designed in the 1950s. It features a distinctive lemon shape and a time delay fuse. The grenade has been used by various Swedish armed forces and law enforcement agencies. Its design prioritizes simplicity, reliability, and effectiveness in anti-personnel situations.
DM61:
OffHGr 85:
SplHGr 85:
Mortars
M252: The M252 Mortar is a portable, smoothbore, high-angle-of-fire weapon used by the U.S. military and allied forces. It is designed for rapid deployment and provides indirect fire support. With a caliber of 81 mm, the M252 is versatile, allowing infantry units to engage targets at various ranges on the battlefield.
m/41D:
Armoured vehicles
Combat Vehicle 90: The Combat Vehicle 90 (CV90) is a family of tracked infantry fighting vehicles developed by Sweden’s BAE Systems Hägglunds. Renowned for its mobility and firepower, the CV90 serves various roles, including troop transport and fire support. Its modular design allows for different configurations, making it adaptable to evolving battlefield requirements.
Patria Pasi: The Patria Pasi is a Finnish 6×6 armoured personnel carrier designed for military and peacekeeping missions. Known for its versatility and robustness, it accommodates up to 16 soldiers. With features like amphibious capability and modular armor, the Patria Pasi provides reliable mobility and protection, making it a staple in military forces.
Otokar Arma 6×6: The Otokar Arma 6×6 is a Turkish wheeled armored vehicle developed by Otokar. Configurable for various roles, it serves as an infantry fighting vehicle, armored personnel carrier, or command vehicle. With a modular design, advanced protection systems, and adaptable firepower, the Arma 6×6 provides flexibility and effectiveness in diverse operational scenarios.
Nurol Yörük NMS:
Artillery
K9 Thunder: The K9 Thunder is a South Korean self-propelled howitzer. Manufactured by Samsung Techwin (now Hanwha Land Systems), it features a 155 mm/52-caliber gun and advanced fire control systems. Renowned for its mobility, firepower, and rapid deployment capabilities, the K9 Thunder enhances artillery capabilities for modern armed forces around the world.
M142 HIMARS: The M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is a versatile rocket artillery system used by the U.S. military and allied forces. Mounted on a wheeled chassis, HIMARS can launch various missiles and rockets, providing precision fires at extended ranges. Its mobility and rapid response make it valuable for expeditionary missions.
Ships
Sandown-class: The Sandown-class is a minehunter vessel used by the Royal Navy and other navies. Designed for mine countermeasures, it features advanced sonar systems and remotely operated vehicles to detect and neutralize mines. With a non-magnetic hull, the Sandown-class minimizes its own susceptibility to magnetic-triggered mines, ensuring safer operations.
Lindormen-class:
NAVY 18 WP class:
Kindral Kurvits class:
PATROL 45 WP class:
Pikker class:
PATROL 24 class:
Aircraft
Aero L-39 Albatros: The Aero L-39 Albatros is a Czechoslovakian-built jet trainer and light attack aircraft. Renowned for its simplicity and agility, the L-39 has served in numerous air forces worldwide. With a sleek design and capable performance, it remains a popular choice for training and aerobatic displays, showcasing its enduring legacy in aviation.
PZL M28 Skytruck: The PZL M28 Skytruck is a Polish twin-engine turboprop short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft. Designed for military and civilian use, it can carry passengers or cargo. Notable for its rugged design and versatility, the Skytruck is employed in various roles, including transport, reconnaissance, and maritime patrol.
Robinson R44: The Robinson R44 is a popular four-seat light helicopter designed and manufactured by Robinson Helicopter Company. Known for its versatility and affordability, the R44 is widely used for various purposes, including training, tourism, and aerial work. It features a piston engine and a two-bladed rotor system, making it a common choice in the light helicopter category.
Unmanned aerial vehicles
Threod Systems Stream C: The Threod Systems Stream C is a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for surveillance and reconnaissance missions. With a lightweight and portable design, it provides real-time intelligence for military and civilian applications. The Stream C UAV is equipped with advanced sensors, offering a versatile solution for monitoring and information gathering.
Threod Systems KX-4 LE Titan:
AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma: The AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma is a small hand-launched unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) used for surveillance and reconnaissance. Designed for military and civilian applications, it provides real-time imagery and data. With a portable and versatile design, the RQ-20 Puma supports various missions, including monitoring and situational awareness.
IAI Harpy: The IAI Harpy is an Israeli autonomous loitering munition system designed for suppressing enemy air defense systems. Deployed from ground-based platforms, it is capable of loitering over the battlefield, autonomously detecting and engaging radar signals. The Harpy is a valuable asset for neutralizing enemy radar installations and air defense capabilities.
Radars
VERA-E: The VERA-E is a mobile ground surveillance radar system developed by HENSOLDT. Used for border and perimeter surveillance, it features advanced electronic scanning technology for efficient monitoring. With a high detection range and accuracy, VERA-E enhances situational awareness, making it valuable for security and military applications, including critical infrastructure protection.
Giraffe AMB: The Giraffe AMB is a versatile mobile radar system developed by Saab. Employed for air and missile defense, it utilizes advanced technology for early warning, target tracking, and threat assessment. The Giraffe AMB’s mobility and adaptability make it suitable for a range of military applications, enhancing situational awareness and response capabilities.
AN/TPS-77: The AN/TPS-77 is a transportable, 3D long-range air surveillance radar system produced by Lockheed Martin. Operating in the L-band, it provides accurate and reliable tracking of aircraft at extended ranges. With high mobility and rapid deployment capabilities, the AN/TPS-77 supports military air defense and air traffic control applications.
Ground Master 403: The Ground Master 403 is a long-range air defense radar system developed by Thales. Operating in the S-band, it offers advanced detection and tracking capabilities for a wide range of aerial threats. With high reliability and adaptability, the Ground Master 403 is employed in military and civil applications, enhancing airspace surveillance.
GCA-2020:
AN/TSQ-288:
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