Estonia Boosts Naval Defense with Blue Spear 5G Missile System

Defense News ,Estonia :- Estonia has significantly enhanced its maritime warfare capabilities with the introduction of the Blue Spear 5G SSM anti-ship missile system. The state-of-the-art missile system, part of Estonia's comprehensive coastal defense solution, covers a vast area in the Baltic Sea with its impressive firing range, according to the Estonian Centre of Defence Investments (ECDI).

The Blue Spear 5G SSM, the latest addition to the Estonian Defence Forces, is a cutting-edge missile system designed for optimal performance in various combat conditions. It features day-and-night, all-weather capabilities and boasts a striking range of up to 290 kilometers. The system's advanced targeting abilities, utilizing active radar guidance, precision navigation, and a robust communication network, make it resilient against electronic countermeasures.

Estonian Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur emphasized the critical importance of acquiring anti-ship missiles for enhancing the Navy's and Estonia's overall defense capabilities. The presence of Blue Spears in the Navy significantly expands the firing range of the Estonian Defence Forces, reinforcing deterrence against potential aggressors.

The cornerstone of Estonia's maritime defense for the coming decades, the Blue Spear 5G anti-ship missile system, along with sea mines, marks a significant milestone. Commodore Jüri Saska, the commander of the Estonian Navy, expressed gratitude to contracting partners, the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments, and naval personnel for their dedication in commissioning these weapon systems.

Proteus Advanced Systems, a joint venture between Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and ST Engineering Land Systems from Singapore, supplied the anti-ship missiles to Estonia. Ron Tryfus, CEO of Proteus Advanced Systems, highlighted the honor of equipping the Estonian Defence Forces with Blue Spear type missiles, emphasizing the high-tech defense capability acquired by the Estonian Navy.

The Estonian government's decision on missile system funding in 2020 led to a contract between the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI) and Proteus Advanced Systems in 2021. Despite challenges, the project's completion was praised, and Ramil Lipp, ECDI's Strategic Category Manager, expressed gratitude for the contracting partner's commitment to meeting international obligations and ensuring the timely arrival of the missile system. The involvement of the Estonian defense industry company Pro Lift OÜ in vehicle modifications suitable for the missile system further emphasizes the success of this strategic initiative.