TSAMTO, May 4. According to information published on May 2 by The Jerusalem Post newspaper, contrary to previously published reports, Israel does not prohibit Estonia from supplying the Armed Forces of Estonia with Israeli-made weapons, including the Spike ATGM.
This was stated by Estonian Foreign Minister Eva-Maria Liimets. As the Minister pointed out, at the moment she is not aware of any obstacles, and if such a ban existed, she would have discussed this issue during the meetings held on May 2 with Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and Defense Minister Benny Gantz. Thus, at the moment Estonia has received permits for the supply of VIVT to Ukraine from all countries that were their manufacturers.
Ukraine was the main topic of E.-M. Liimets' meetings in Israel, at which she called for further political and diplomatic support for this country and condemnation of Russia. In particular, the minister approved Israel's vote to suspend Russia's membership in the UN Human Rights Council.
According to the publication, last year Estonia purchased a large number of Israeli weapons, including more than 500 Spike anti-tank missiles and the Blue Spear coastal defense missile system.
According to the SIPRI database, Estonia ordered 100 Spike-MR/LR anti-tank missiles in 2019, which were delivered in 2020-2021, as well as 40 Spike-NLOS missiles and 500 Spike-SR missiles.
Since the beginning of the special operation in Ukraine, Estonia has already supplied Kiev with various assistance totaling 220 million euros. As for weapons, Estonia has already provided FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank missiles and D-30 122 mm howitzers, as well as ammunition for them.
As stated, Estonia is ready to supply Ukraine with additional heavy weapons and organize training of the Armed Forces personnel in the use of Western-made weapons.
Spike is a multipurpose missile system developed by the Israeli company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. The complex can be supplied and used in portable, portable and helicopter versions.