The Estonian Center for Defense Investment (RKIK) has handed over several Turkish-made wheeled armored vehicles to the defense forces.
Nearly 50 Otokar-developed Arma 6×6 armored personnel carriers (APCs) and Nurol Makina NMS 4×4 tactical light armored vehicles were assigned to the 2nd Infantry Brigade.
An unspecified number of the 4×4 vehicles were also distributed to the 1st Infantry Brigade and four were allocated to the deminers of the Rescue Board, which the Director General of the Rescue Board, Margo Klaos, described as a “big step forward in preparing for crises.”
If necessary, the four 4x4s can also be utilized by the Police and Border Guard Board and the Internal Security Service.
Tallinn ordered approximately 230 Arma 6×6 APCs and NMS 4×4 military vehicles in October 2023. The 10-year contract also included provisions to acquire spare parts, additional vehicles, and maintenance and repair services.
The platforms were already produced according to the Estonian military’s requirements, and “all that remains to be installed in Estonia is the communication system and other equipment,” according to Marek Mardo, RKIK strategic category manager of air, sea, and combat vehicles.
Deliveries began in December of 2024, with completion expected by the end of 2025.
“The government’s decision to allocate nearly 2.7 million euros for these armored vehicles is an investment in the security of our people,” Deputy Secretary General for Rescue and Crisis Management at the Ministry of the Interior Tuuli Räim said.
The acquisition will help improve the Estonian defense forces’ responsiveness in high-risk operations, enhance troop and cargo transport capabilities, and strengthen internal security.
Arma 6×6
The Arma 6×6 is a modular vehicle with a maximum weight of 18,500 kilograms (40,785 pounds), which is armed with a 12.7-millimeter machine gun.
It is equipped with a 450-horsepower turbocharged diesel engine that enables the vehicle to run at a top speed of 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour at a range of 700 kilometers (434 miles).
Previously, Estonian troops dismounted from a truck. The Arma in its APC configuration offered enhanced crew protection features against mines and artillery fire along with improved maneuverability.
The 6×6 can fit eight troops, plus a driver and a gunner who assists in navigation as the APC does not have front or side windows.
NMS 4×4
Also a modular and multipurpose platform, the NMS 4×4 can carry up to 11 personnel and is fitted with protection against mine and improvised explosive devices.
It can be armed with weapon systems such as the 12.7-millimeter machine gun, a 40-millimeter grenade launcher, an air defense system, and an anti-tank weapon system.
