Tallinn has made a significant decision regarding its military capabilities by selecting Parnu-based Nitrotol OÜ as the industry partner for an ammunition and explosives manufacturing line at the Ämari air base in northern Estonia. The initiative, organized by the National Center for Defence Investments (RKIK), aims to bolster the firepower capabilities of the Estonian military and its allies, with operations expected to commence in 2025.
The selection process involved three proposals, ultimately leading to the decision to partner with Nitrotol OÜ, which is set to take on factory operations by spring next year. RKIK emphasized that their choice was guided by the requirements of the Estonia Defence Forces, alongside considerations of associated costs, turnover, and the robustness of contractual coverage.
The manufacturing facility will occupy an impressive area of approximately 8,900 square meters (95,799 square feet) at the air base. Tambet Tõnisson, Head of State Assets at RKIK, praised Nitrotol’s proposal, indicating that it stood out due to its thoroughness, thoughtfulness, and transparency. Tõnisson noted that the detailed action plan and satisfactory responses to follow-up inquiries demonstrated that Nitrotol OÜ had done ample preparatory work to meet the expected timelines effectively.
Furthermore, this manufacturing effort at Ämari air base is expected to coincide with Tallinn’s broader initiative to establish a primary defense industrial park in the country. Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur remarked on the current security landscape, asserting the necessity for rapid advancement in national defense and the defense industry. He highlighted the significance of the emerging Ämari Mini Defense Industrial Park as a means to enable local ammunition production and its role in broader defensive capabilities.
Pevkur also mentioned that the construction of a larger defense industrial park is in the planning stages, which will not only enhance Estonia’s defense capacities but also generate new employment opportunities and contribute positively to the economy.
The Ämari air base has a rich historical context, having been reopened in November 2024 as part of Estonia’s strategy to modernize its military infrastructure. Originally established during the Soviet era, the base was transferred to Estonia’s control following the Soviet Union’s collapse in the early 1990s. After Estonia’s accession to NATO in the 2000s, it evolved into one of the multinational bases under the alliance in Europe. The recent renovations at the base included significant financial backing, with a budget of $12.9 million supported by Luxembourg.
As Estonia continues to navigate the complexities of modern defense dynamics, the establishment of local ammunition production represents a pivotal step in enhancing the nation’s military readiness and its strategic commitments to NATO allies.
