Estonia acquires the initial HIMARS Multiple Launch Rocket Systems.
Rewritten Article:
Estonia has gotten its hands on the first shipment of HIMARS Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) supplied from the USA. These bad boys touched down at Emari Airport.
The news broke from ERR agency and they're stating all six previously ordered MLRS have made it to Estonia. Right now, they're prepping a big ol' batch of ammunition for these missile systems.
According to Major General Indrek Sirel of the Estonian army, the arrival of these HIMARS will beef up Estonia's defense capabilities, granting them the ability to strike deep into enemy territory.
The deal for acquiring HIMARS from the USA was sealed between Estonia and the States in 2022. Here's what's coming their way: 36 M30A2, 36 M31A2, 36 XM403, 36 XM404 missiles, and 18 ATACMS missiles for the Estonian army.
HIMARS is a state-of-the-art rocket launcher manufactured in the USA, weighing around 11 tons and reaching speeds of 85 km/h. It can handle six rockets or one MGM-140 tactical ballistic missile. The range varies depending on the ammo used and goes up to 80 km with conventional and guided missiles, and up to 300 km with different versions of ATACS. There's even talk of equipping HIMARS with groundbreaking hypersonic missiles.
Now, here's the lowdown on this purchase:
- Versatility: Each launcher can accommodate six Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets, two Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM), or one Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) round.
- Long-Range Precision Strikes: Compact ATACMS missiles, included in Estonia's delivery, can engage targets far beyond 300 km, with the potential for longer ranges using PrSMs.
- High-Accuracy Targeting: HIMARS systems are designed to hit high-value targets such as enemy artillery, air defenses, and command nodes, reducing direct infantry exposure.
- Multi-domain operations: HIMARS integrates with NATO allies' reconnaissance and targeting networks, supporting joint warfare.
- Deterrence: Strengthens Baltic defense against potential armored and artillery threats in the region.
Keep in mind that the US is upgrading its PrSM inventory with around 400 new missiles soon, replacing the current ATACMS. While Estonia's initial configuration includes ATACMS, hold tight for potential future PrSM integration. Happy taking over the battlefield, Estonia!
- The arrival of the MLRS missile systems in Estonia, notably the HIMARS, has seriously raised Estonia's sports on the battlefield, as these advanced rocket launchers, loaded with ammunition, can strike deep into enemy territory.
- In planning for future multi-domain operations, Estonia's HIMARS installation will integrate with NATO allies' reconnaissance and targeting networks, allowing for high-accuracy targeting of key enemy targets such as artillery, air defenses, and command nodes.
- The news of Estonia receiving 18 ATACMS missiles for its army also hints at the potential for future adaptations, with the possibility of integrating the newer Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM) into its arsenal, promising more versatility and extended range for its missile systems.
