Estonia orders Israeli mortars
Spear Mk II 120mm mortar system. (Photo: Elbit Systems)
Elbit is providing 120mm mortar systems plus lifecycle support for Estonia.
The Estonian National Defense Investment Centre has ordered 120mm mortars from sole bidder Elbit Systems of Israel, under a framework agreement worth up to €15 million ($17.27 million).
The contract was awarded on 30 September but it was formally announced on the EU contracts database on 10 November.
As well as an undisclosed number of 120mm mortar systems, Elbit will also provide lifecycle support for the Estonian Army.
Elbit produces two types of crew-served towable 120mm mortar, either of which can be operated with a light handheld fire-control system.
Shephard reported in late October that the 2022 Estonian defence budget allocates funding to procure 4x4 vehicles. A potential candidate is the Oshkosh Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, which can function as a self-propelled mortar carrier when fitted with the Elbit Spear 120mm crew-served system.
Elbit also produces the 120mm Cardom autonomous self-propelled recoiling mortar with auto-laying capabilities.
More from Land Warfare
-
![NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise]()
NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise
The Crystal Arrow Exercise is being used by NATO as a way to put new equipment such as uncrewed ground and aerial vehicles into the hands of alliance users, particularly Latvian and Baltic forces.
-
![CSG’s new CFL-120 Karpat medium tank demonstrates move to modularity]()
CSG’s new CFL-120 Karpat medium tank demonstrates move to modularity
Built using proven parts across three countries, the CFL-120 uses a Turkish chassis, an Italian turret and Czech integration to reflect a modular approach to tank design.
-
![Team LionStrike fleshes out UK Land Mobility Programme bid]()
Team LionStrike fleshes out UK Land Mobility Programme bid
At an industry press day this week, Shephard's Christopher Foss looked more closely at Team LionStrike's line-up.
-
![NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine]()
NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine
The war in Ukraine remains a focus of procurement, concepts of operation, tactics and training for NATO countries. The Crystal Arrow Exercise in Latvia, ongoing until 15 May, is a reflection of this.
