On October 29, new Mercedes-Benz Unimog U4000 trucks arrived in Estonia to support the Estonian Defence Forces in more effectively carrying out the tasks of maneuver and reconnaissance units in the field. These versatile and reliable vehicles are renowned for their capability to perform in challenging conditions.
“A strategic investment in Estonia’s defence capability significantly enhances the mobility and capability of our Defence Forces, helping us respond to various challenges and ensuring flexible and rapid response in different situations. This is part of our long-term strategy to increase the capacity and operational readiness of the Defence Forces,” said Erko Sepri, Strategic Category Manager (Vehicles, Machinery & Logistics) at the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI).
The Mercedes Unimog U4000, supplied by AS Veho Eesti, is a four-wheel-drive off-road truck with a maximum payload capacity of 2,700 kg and can overcome slopes with an incline of over 30%.
The Unimogs are also widely known for their maneuverability and off-road capability in both military and civilian sectors. The trucks can traverse water obstacles up to 1.2 meters deep and withstand extreme temperatures.
“Tactical trucks are indispensable equipment for fulfilling the tasks of maneuver and reconnaissance units. The Estonian terrain poses challenges, especially in terms of terrain capability. Military readiness requires units to be combat-capable in all seasons, and these vehicles provide that assurance. We are pleased that these new vehicles will be in use and serve us for decades,” said Major Raigo Puusepp, the Chief Technician of the Estonian Defence Forces.
Among the fleet vehicles arriving this and next year are both logistical vehicles designed for road travel and tactical vehicles capable of driving on both roads and off-road terrain. In addition to AS Veho Eesti, military vehicles are also supplied by Scania Eesti and Volvo Defence AB.
The total cost of the framework contract for military vehicles is approximately 693 million euros, enabling the acquisition of vehicles not only for the Defence Forces but also for the Estonian Defence League, the Police and Border Guard Board, and subsidiary institutions of the Latvian Ministry of Defence.
Source: Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI).