Amid escalating tensions with Russia, Estonia and Lithuania have awarded Rheinmetall contracts worth a combined €33 million ($38 million) to enhance their infantry capabilities.
Estonia’s Grenade Framework
Estonia has signed a multi-year agreement with Rheinmetall for hand grenade supply, valued at approximately €17 million ($19 million).
Deliveries of splinter grenades will take place in 2026–2027, with offensive grenades scheduled from 2026 to 2029 — part of a broader effort to fortify ground troops.
Lithuania’s Munitions Order
Lithuania’s procurement focuses on tens of thousands of 40×46mm high-explosive fragmentation rounds, intended for grenade launchers. With a €16 million ($18 million) budget, deliveries will occur over 2026–2027.
Rheinmetall’s Firepower Capabilities
Rheinmetall’s 40mm portfolio supports various NATO missions and includes:
Low-velocity (40×46mm): Effective up to 400m, 76 m/s muzzle speed
Medium-velocity (40×46mm): Extended reach to 900m, 100 m/s velocity
High-velocity (40×53mm): For automatic launchers, up to 2,000m, 130 m/s
Bolstering Baltic Defense Posture
These purchases are part of broader defense escalations across the Baltics.
Estonia, sharing a border with Russia, will raise defense spending to 5% of GDP starting next year.
Lithuania aims to spend up to 6% of GDP annually from 2026 to 2030, positioning itself as a regional defense leader.
The moves reflect a rapid militarization trend among NATO’s eastern members, driven by concerns over Russia’s actions in Ukraine and the fear of regional spillover.
