Estonia plans to build 12 new ships for the Navy
20.03.2025 - 11:32
The Estonian Navy needs larger ships that can provide better seaworthiness than the current vessels.
According to Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur, the country plans to build three large ships with a length of about 90 meters. This is reported by ERR.
In addition, it is necessary to build nine more smaller ships, 60-70 meters long. But, according to Pevkur, the service life of existing ships may also be extended. Also, if financial difficulties arise, plans will have to be adjusted.
The minister noted that the construction of new ships should take place in Estonia.
“When it comes to ships of this size, we are primarily talking about two major shipbuilders – Baltic Workboats and BLRT. But I do not exclude that small shipbuilders will also reach a level where they can build smaller ships,” Pevkur said.
Lithuania has already made a decision on the construction of new warships. BLRT has commissioned its Lithuanian division Western Baltic Engineering, together with Danish firm OSK Design, to develop the design of the 88-meter warship Perkunas.
Back in 2017, the commanders of the Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian navies discussed what the new fleet should be like. According to the commander of the Estonian Defence Forces, Major General Andrus Merilo, the Estonian Navy already has a clear idea of the ships it needs.
“It is much more important for us to find long-term financing, which will be the basis for the further development of the fleet. We need to find resources, and this work is already underway. Obviously, we will find these resources. And we will make a plan for when and which ships will be built,” Merilo said.
Estonia has commissioned the Swedish national research institute RISE to conduct an analysis of which ship is most suitable for military, border and rescue functions, as well as combating pollution.
“The recommendation should be received in the coming months. The main desire is to get a clear idea of which ship is most suitable for the Baltic region or the Baltic Sea, which would provide the Navy with multifunctionality,” explained Pevkur.
Earlier, USM wrote that Estonia is ready to act against ships that pose a danger to the Baltic Sea.
