TALLINN. Dec 13 (Interfax) - The Estonian Defense Forces have received upgraded Block 1 missiles from the United States for Javelin anti-tank weapon systems.
The missiles arrived straight from the manufacturer and are distinct from the Block 0 missiles earlier supplied; they have greater flight speed and greater destructive power, a spokesperson for the Defense Forces told Interfax on Tuesday.
"Compared to their previous-generation predecessors, Block 1 missiles have a more modern engine, more programmable control, and a more powerful warhead, which ensures greater flight speed and greater power of destruction," the Forces' chief gunner, Maj. Risto Partel, said.
In all, Estonia has received 33 million dollars' worth of ammunition thanks to U.S. funds allocated in 2014 for security in Europe.
Javelins are used as anti-tank weapons by infantry battalions and are gradually replacing the Milan systems currently in use.
Javelins are so-called fire-and-forget systems: they have a powerful warhead and can be fired from inside enclosed premises.