Ukraine and Estonia have agreed to significantly expand cooperation between their defense industries and launch joint weapons production. Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur signed a memorandum to formalize this strategic partnership. The cooperation focuses on drone development, electronic warfare systems, and innovative IT solutions for the front line.
Mykhailo Fedorov reported this after the official meeting.
He stated that the document starts the integration process of defense sectors to create win-win technological products. Estonia remains a leading provider of aid, allocating 0.25% of its GDP to Ukraine’s military needs, which totals approximately 110 million euros annually.
“Estonia has already made contributions and announced 0.25% of its GDP for military aid to our country this year, which is approximately 110 million euros. This is not just a contribution to the security of our country, but to the security of the entire region, to the security of Europe,” emphasized Mykhailo Fedorov.
In addition to direct aid, Estonia allocated 13 million dollars through the PURL program for anti-ballistic missile supplies. Another vital vector is the IT Coalition, where Estonia serves as a co-leader. This track has already attracted 1.4 billion euros to modernize the communication systems of the Armed Forces.
Technological partnership and financial prospects
The Estonian side intends not only to maintain but potentially increase the volume of support. Hanno Pevkur highlighted that the current 0.25% of GDP is a baseline that could rise to 0.35%. According to his estimates, if other partners follow this example, Ukraine could receive up to 130 billion euros for defense. The minister also noted the importance of the 90 billion euro EU aid package.
The parties focus on scaling the production of unmanned systems and counter-drone technologies. The Estonian side confirmed its readiness to involve its manufacturers in the “Build with Ukraine” initiative. Hanno Pevkur noted that Estonian companies are eager to learn from Ukraine’s combat experience to improve their own products.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that the EU postponed the ban on maritime transport of Russian oil.
