Estonia Plans to Supply Ukraine With Javelin Anti-Tank Missiles, Howitzers

HELSINKI (Sputnik) - The Estonian Defense Ministry intends to provide Ukraine with Javelin anti-tank missiles and 122 mm howitzers, Peeter Kuimet, the head of the international cooperation department of the Estonian Ministry of Defence said on Thursday.

According to the official, Estonia has been assisting Ukraine in the training of military medical personnel, artillerymen, and soldiers of special forces since 2014. Kuimet said that since Russia has allegedly been building up its military forces on the border with Ukraine, Estonia plans to significantly increase its support to Kiev.

"What we are are currently considering or working on are Javelin missiles for anti-tank missile systems, and we are considering, or planning, to provide 122 mm howitzers together with their ammunition," Kuimet told the Estonian broadcaster ERR.

The official explained that before making a final decision, Estonia has to obtain permission from the country of origin of the missiles — the United States — as well as from the former owners of howitzers — Finland and Germany. Thus, the timing of the assistance largely depends on how the negotiations with the allies progresses.

Estonia has received Javelin missiles from the United States. The cost of one missile ranges from 75,000 to 130,000 euros ($84,856-$147,084), depending on the terms of contracts and on the specific type of the weapon. Estonia plans to supply Ukraine with several dozens of such missiles.