'India Is a Really Good Producer': Estonia Looks to Boost Defence Ties with Indian Firms

As Estonia significantly increases its defence spending to 5.4% of GDP, the Baltic nation is actively seeking partnerships with Indian defence companies to bolster its military capabilities. This strategic move comes amid heightened security concerns in the region and a broader push by NATO allies to enhance their defence postures.

In an exclusive interview, Kaimo Kuusk, Permanent General Secretary of the Estonian Ministry of Defence, emphasized Estonia's commitment to investing in its own freedom through substantial defence allocations. He highlighted specific areas where collaboration with Indian firms is being pursued, including air defence systems, long-range artillery, and drone technology.

"We will invest 5.4% of our GDP in defence, or as we like to say, we're investing in our own freedom," Kuusk stated. "We have identified different layers of priority-like air defence, deep-strike capabilities, and naval capabilities. Specifically, when we talk about deep-strike capabilities, we are also talking about long-range artillery. Ammunition is important, particularly 155mm calibre artillery ammunition," he said, adding that "India is a really good producer of both artillery systems and ammunition."

Estonia is also developing defence industrial parks to facilitate such collaborations. Kuusk mentioned that several Indian companies have shown interest in establishing manufacturing units in Estonia to produce essential defence equipment.

"We are developing our defence industrial parks as well. Recently, we had a deadline for companies to apply to start production there. Among more than a dozen participants, there were also some Indian companies interested in establishing manufacturing here-producing things Estonia needs for its defence," he noted.

When asked about the kind of role Indian companies could play, he said that production in Estonia, co-production, and joint ventures are all options that are open.

Ashish Singh is an award-winning senior journalist with over 18 years of experience in defence & foreign affairs.