The Estonian Defence Forces has taken delivery of its first TRG M10 advanced sniper rifles from Finnish arms manufacturer Sako.
According to the State Defense Investment Center (RKIK), the new weapons have been handed over to several military units for test-firing at the Sirgala training ground.
The exercise is intended to align the sights of the new rifles and evaluate their overall performance in Estonian terrain.
The RKIK did not disclose the exact number of rifles delivered, but Sako previously said it was due to ship approximately 70 TRG M10s by 2024.
‘A Tactical Advantage’
In 2023, Estonia announced that it had selected Sako over Haenel and two other competitors to supply its new sniper rifles.
The Finnish firm pitched its advanced TRG M10, an 8.6-millimeter weapon that can hit enemy troops up to 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) away.
It features cutting-edge optical and thermal sights, offering improved efficiency in various weather and light conditions.
Additionally, its modular design provides operators with greater flexibility.
“The 8.6mm rifle gives the Maakaitte fighters a longer firing range and better accuracy – another tactical advantage that helps … repel the enemy,” said Colonel Eero Rebo, chief of staff of the Estonian Defense League.
Increased Interoperability
A globally recognized sniper rifle, the TRG M10 is in service with several NATO countries, including newest member Sweden.
Estonia’s acquisition of a similar weapon system is expected to bring its sniper capabilities in line with those of its regional partners.
“It is gratifying to see that a mature system in active production by our northern neighbors has reached Estonia, thus renewing our top shooting capability,” RKIK armaments head Ramil Lipp said.