GALLERY: Estonian defence forces hold first live fire exercise using Javelin anti-tank missiles
On Friday, the Estonian defense forces carried out the first live fire exercise with the Javelin anti-tank guided missile system purchased from the US in 2014.
The exercise took place at the defense forces' central training area, military spokespeople said. In the course of the exercise two missiles were fired by the anti-tank platoon of the Viru Infantry Battalion.
One shot from the Javelin anti-tank guided missile system costs around 73,000 euros.
In November 2014 Estonia signed a contract with the United States for the purchase of Javelin anti-tank missile systems worth 40 million euros. Estonia is to buy 80 Javelin firing devices and the contract leaves open a possibility for Estonia to buy another 40 devices if necessary.
The anti-tank systems are to be used by the defense forces and the volunteer corps Kaitseliit (Defense League). The system is to be fully utilized in 2016-2018.
The Estonian Defense Forces currently use MILAN and MAPATS systems, so the Javelin system represents a significant upgrade.