HIMARS, the American highly mobile artillery rocket system, has become the hot topic in the Baltic states, which are frantically preparing for a possible Russian threat. After this system proved its deadly effectiveness in Ukraine, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania decided to purchase it as a key part of their defense. But is this a smart move or just an expensive gamble on war?
Ukraine has been using HIMARS since 2022 to deliver painful blows to Russian forces, destroying ammunition depots and command centers deep behind enemy lines. Although the system’s effectiveness has declined over time due to Russian electronic jamming, HIMARS remains a key factor in the conflict. The Baltic states, located on NATO’s front line and sharing a border with Russia, see this weapon as an opportunity to send a clear message to Moscow: we will not be easy targets.
Estonian Defense Minister Maju Pevkur openly stated that his country believes in HIMARS’s ability to conduct deep strikes and thus deter Russia from attacking. In addition, the Baltic states are investing huge resources in strengthening air defense, electronic warfare, and other military capabilities. However, acquiring HIMARS is not just a military decision but also a political message to NATO and the world that these countries are ready to defend themselves by all means.
But it’s not that simple. HIMARS is an expensive system, and its full effectiveness depends on the availability of ammunition and training. Estonia and other countries are considering whether they can secure sufficient rocket supplies and whether American support will be stable in the long term. There is also a risk that such purchases will further escalate tensions with Russia, which already views the Baltic states as potential targets.
Experts warn that the war in Ukraine has shown how important it is to have the capability to strike deep behind enemy lines, but also how difficult it is to maintain such capabilities amid constant electronic interference and political complications. The Baltic states, though small, invest the highest percentage of their GDP in defense, showing the seriousness of their concerns.
In short, the Baltic states’ purchase of HIMARS is a dramatic move that could have far-reaching consequences. Is it a wise preparation for defense or a dangerous game with fire? As the world watches, these small countries are putting their cards on the table – and doing so with full hands of rockets. What do you think? Is this just another step toward a bigger conflict or a necessary measure to preserve peace? Drop a comment and let your voice be heard in this fiery debate!
