From independence to integration: analyzing Estonia’s strategic alignment and arms procurement patterns

Abstract

How do changes in strategic alignment affect arms procurement patterns? This thesis focuses on changes in Estonia’s strategic alignment and the affect this has had on defence procurements conducted by Estonia in the years prior and after Estonia’s accession into NATO. This study argues, that the status of alignment can introduce more stability and structure to defence procurements compared to the status of being non-aligned. Additionally a change in alignment can also have an impact on the sources of procurement, mainly seeing a small or moderate increase in the procurements conducted from other mutually aligned countries. The implications of this study could reflect on the possible effects that NATO accession can have for future members of the alliance. Furthermore, this study helps to understand the strategic implications of being a member of an alliance and the effect this poses on a member states strategies in procuring their defence equipment.