The United States has cautioned that the ongoing conflict involving Iran could disrupt timelines for delivering weapons and ammunition to the Baltic nations, according to statements made by the prime ministers of Estonia and Lithuania at a joint press briefing on April 17.
Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal confirmed that Washington has communicated the situation, noting that Estonia understands the context behind the potential delays. He emphasized that discussions are ongoing to find ways to manage the supply issues, while reaffirming that the U.S. remains a key ally with a strong military presence and close ties to Estonia.
Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė said her government has not encountered major concerns so far regarding planned U.S. military shipments. However, she acknowledged that Lithuania has been notified of adjustments to delivery timelines, with some deadlines being pushed back.
Meanwhile, Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa stated that her government has not received any formal notification from the U.S. about changes to its delivery schedule. Still, she added that Latvia is closely monitoring developments as they unfold.
These remarks come amid recent reports suggesting that U.S. arms shipments to several European countries—including Baltic and Scandinavian allies—could face delays, according to Reuters.
On April 18, Estonia’s Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur told local broadcaster ERR that his country’s primary concern centers on possible delays in ammunition supplies for the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS). Estonia received its first six HIMARS units in April 2025, following a 2022 order, and recently placed an additional order for three more systems from Lockheed Martin, expected to arrive in 2027.
Pevkur noted that while ammunition deliveries appear to be paused, Estonia is seeking clarity on whether the issue affects all allies equally or if exceptions might apply. He also pointed out that if delays persist, alternative solutions may need to be explored. Although using compatible ammunition from other manufacturers is theoretically possible, doing so would require approval from both Lockheed Martin and the U.S. government.
Latvia and Lithuania, like Estonia, have also acquired HIMARS systems for their armed forces.
