Minister of Defence of Estonia, Hanno Pevkur was on a two-day visit to Ukraine to discuss opportunities for developing defence cooperation and Estonia’s military aid to Ukraine. The Minister was accompanied on the visit to Kyiv by representatives of more than 30 Estonian defence industry companies.
“Estonia’s defence industry is certainly strong in all matters related to Unmanned Aerial Systems and technology, including reconnaissance, but our entrepreneurs should not hesitate to look beyond that and seek opportunities in the production of heavier weaponry and ammunition. We undoubtedly have much to learn from the Ukrainians,” said Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur, adding that closer ties between the defence industries of the two countries strengthen the security of both.
During the visit, a defence industry forum was held where Estonian companies had the opportunity to establish contacts with representatives of nearly 90 Ukrainian defence industry companies and to familiarize themselves with each other’s products.
“We see that to be successful in Ukraine today, you need to be present here on the ground or have close connections here. Otherwise, you won’t bring real battlefield experience back home. Ukraine’s experience is what lays the foundation for the rapid development of our own defence industry,” Pevkur added.
In March, Ukraine presented Estonia with a selection of military aid, which the Estonian government is now procuring from Estonian companies for a total of €100 million. The selection includes Unmanned Aerial and Ground Vehicles, watercraft, medical equipment and supplies offered by Estonian defence firms.
Estonia will continue to support Ukraine with at least 0.25% of its GDP annually and is increasing that amount by another quarter this year. The majority of Estonia’s military aid is invested in a measure that enables Estonian companies to contribute to Ukraine’s victory. In addition, Estonia provides direct material military aid to Ukraine, supports the training of Ukrainian troops, and leads, together with Luxembourg, the IT coalition for aiding Ukraine.
During the visit, the Minister of Defence also met with Ukraine’s Minister of Defence Rustem Umerov, Minister of Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin, Head of the Defence Intelligence Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, and other key officials to discuss recent developments in Ukraine and the evolving security situation.
Photos from the visit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/kaitseministeerium_mod_estonia/albums/72177720324946152
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