Estonia has canceled its plans to acquire new infantry fighting vehicles (IFV), opting instead to modernize its existing fleet of 44 CV9035NL platforms to preserve capability and optimize resources.
- €100 million allocated to upgrade 44 existing CV9035NL IFVs.
- Over $400 million in remaining funds likely to be redirected toward counter-UAS and FPV strike drones.
- Total defence spending for 2025 has risen to more than $1.6 billion.
The decision reverses previous efforts to explore the CV90 Mk IV and other international IFV options as replacements for the 9035NL variants, which were acquired between 2016 and 2019.
A spokesperson for the Estonian Center for Defence Investments stated that modernizing the current fleet is more rational than replacement. This approach is intended to ensure the sustained preservation of operational capabilities through the efficient use of funds.
Remaining allocated funds, estimated to exceed $400 million, are currently pending analysis. However, these funds are expected to shift toward counter-UAS and FPV strike drone systems, following the tactical and strategic influence these technologies have demonstrated in Ukraine.
Parallel to the IFV decision, Estonia has completed the delivery of its armored personnel carrier (APC) orders. All vehicles arrived in 2025.
The Estonian Defence Forces now have 133 Otokar ARMA 6×6 vehicles and 96 Nurol Machina NMS 4×4 vehicles in active use. Additionally, four Nurol vehicles were delivered to the Estonian Rescue Board.
Estonia Defence Spending Increase
Estonia’s defence expenditure has seen a significant rise, with estimated spending for 2025 exceeding $1.6 billion. This is nearly double the $820 million spent in 2022.
As a percentage of GDP, the country’s total expenditure increased to 3.42% in 2025, up from 2.14% in 2022. This investment reflects an accelerating focus on defensive counter-UAS capabilities as drones become more prevalent in modern battlespaces.
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
