The Finnish Defence Forces

The Finnish Defence Forces - Press Releases https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/current-issues/-/asset_publisher/JIbSQ9miX9H6/rss The Finnish Defence Forces - Press Releases Tue, 21 Apr 2026 09:38:01 GMT 2026-04-21T09:38:01Z Providing security for Finland and Finnish people – Reservists to refresher exercises https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/providing-security-for-finland-and-finnish-people-reservists-to-refresher-exercises There is no military threat to Finland. The current situation results from Ukraine’s justified defence to counter Russia’s unlawful aggression. &#xa0; – Changes in the security environment may be swift, and their duration remains unforeseen. It is understandable that recent developments in Finland’s security environment, such as the drone incidents, may give rise to concern. By means of consent-based refresher exercises we utilise reservists’ competence in the way the situation requires, as well as ensure adequate numbers of personnel in case of a prolonged situation. Currently, there is no direct military threat to Finland. The refresher exercises to be now held are part of the Finnish Defence Forces’ preparedness for the future too, says the Assistant Chief of Staff, Operations, Defence Command, Brigadier General Aki Heikkinen. The assigned reservists have given their consent to arrive promptly at a refresher exercise, when necessary, which shows their high level of commitment and will to defend. The Finnish Defence Forces will communicate with the assigned reservists, and therefore the reservists do not need to contact the Finnish Defence Forces.&#xa0; The Finnish Defence Forces will order to refresher exercises the number of reservists deemed necessary. Refresher exercises will be held across Finland, and the total duration of the exercises will be determined based on the need assessed by the Finnish Defence Forces. For an assigned reservist, the duration of the refresher exercise will be indicated on their order.&#xa0; For sustained operational security, no further details will be provided concerning the activity or number of personnel (including reservists), or tasks, exercises’ duration, or force locations. This effort is to ensure protection of critical information as well as to deny access to it. A fundamental principle of operational security is that also civilian population is asked not to publish anything relating to equipment, vehicles, personnel, force movement, or locations on any communication channels, including social media. The equipment and personnel are on the move to safeguard the security of Finnish people. The order for the refresher training is based on the Conscription Act (1438/2007), act on the liability for military service. Section 32, Subsection 1 of the Conscription Act stipulates that persons liable for military service who are reservists may be assigned to refresher training. And, as per Section 32, Subsection 2, the order for refresher training is sent to reservists at least three months before the beginning of the exercise. This time limit may be deviated from with the reservist’s permission. Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/providing-security-for-finland-and-finnish-people-reservists-to-refresher-exercises 2026-04-20T09:00:00Z Base visit in Finland pursuant to the Vienna Document https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/base-visit-in-finland-pursuant-to-the-vienna-document The document states that, as a measure to increase trust and security, each member state is obliged to present one Army and one Air Force unit to the representatives sent by the other member states within a period of five years. In the spirit of the Vienna Document, the purpose of presenting the units and bases is to increase openness between the member states and the transparency of operations, along with further reducing military tension between the states. The last base visit in Finland was organised in 2021. The OSCE is one of the most extensive regional security organisations in the world, whose member states cover a geographic area spanning from Vancouver to Vladivostok. Finland has been involved in the OSCE and the preceding CSCE (Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe) since the beginning. Finland signed the Helsinki Final Act in 1975 at the same time as 34 other countries. The year 2015 marks the 40th anniversary of the Helsinki conference and the decisions which originated the OSCE arms control agreements and the related practical measures. &#xa0; <a href="http://www.osce.org/">Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe</a> Fri, 17 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/base-visit-in-finland-pursuant-to-the-vienna-document 2026-04-17T10:00:00Z The Regional Impacts of the War in Ukraine on Russia and Their Implications for the Security Environment https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-regional-impacts-of-the-war-in-ukraine-on-russia-and-their-implications-for-the-security-environment Since Russia launched its full scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, experts and analysts on Russia have debated the war’s consequences for Russian society. Will the economy collapse? Does the majority of the population support the war? Could the economic downturn trigger widespread protests or even a simmering revolutionary movement? These questions are often discussed as if Russia were a uniform, cohesive whole. In reality, Russia is a vast and diverse country whose more than 80 regions differ significantly from one another economically, culturally, and geographically. This research bulletin analyses the effects of the war inside Russia specifically from a regional standpoint. It examines how the war’s negative and positive consequences are distributed across different regions and what kinds of developments this uneven impact may generate. Finally, it assesses how these internal dynamics influence the security environment of Northern Europe. 2026:4&#xa0;<a href="/documents/1951253/2815786/2026_Research_Bulletin_Four_Russias_at_War.pdf/ac1080e7-2f26-d07a-11f0-28fa77ce8d0a?t=1775107955324" target="_blank">Four Russias at War: Regional Impacts and Their Implications on Northern European Security</a> <h2>Additional information</h2> Further information will be provided by MA Eemil Mitikka if required. <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/web/tutkimus/fdra-publications" target="_blank">Previous research bulletins can be found here.</a> Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:07:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-regional-impacts-of-the-war-in-ukraine-on-russia-and-their-implications-for-the-security-environment 2026-04-02T06:07:00Z Tuomo Leino to become Chief Physician of the Finnish Defence Forces https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/tuomo-leino-to-become-chief-physician-of-the-finnish-defence-forces On the same date, Medical Brigadier General Tuomo Kaarlo Leino will take up his position as Chief Surgeon of the Defence Forces. He has previously served as the Air Force's chief Surgeon, administrative Chief Surgeon at the Defence Command Finland and as Chief physician at the Centre for Military Medicine. He is a medical doctor. Leino was promoted to medical colonel 4.6.2021. Wed, 01 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/tuomo-leino-to-become-chief-physician-of-the-finnish-defence-forces 2026-04-01T05:00:00Z Finnish Defence Forces’ activities are visible in Southeast Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-forces-activities-are-visible-in-southeast-finland Ukraine launched operations more extensive than before against Russian targets in the eastern part of the Gulf of Finland on the night between Sunday 22 March and Monday 23 March. &#xa0;The strikes and Russian air defence measures have been continuing ever since and the latest operation was ongoing last night. All this time, the Finnish Defence Forces has remained in increased readiness due to the eventuality of drones straying into Finland.&#xa0; On Sunday 29 March, drones strayed into Finnish airspace for the first time. &#xa0;At 08.13 a.m, slow-moving objects presumed to be drones were approaching the limit of Finnish territorial waters southeast of Kotka. &#xa0;Air Force fighter jets and a Navy readiness vessel were there conducting surveillance and safeguarding the airspace. &#xa0; The Air Force identified visually the first drone that entered Finnish airspace and followed it at visual range. &#xa0;The option of shooting it down was assessed against risks posed to the local people. &#xa0;The drone crashed on the ground north of Kouvola. &#xa0;Police cordoned off the area. According to a preliminary estimation by authorities, the drone that fell to the ground north of Kouvola was still carrying an unexploded warhead, due to which the drone was disabled by detonating it under controlled circumstances on Sunday evening. The Defence Forces also tracked the other drone that had fallen to the ground east of Kouvola by air surveillance radar. &#xa0;A massive migration of birds going on in the same area and at the same altitude as drones makes is difficult to track slow-flying devices accurately. &#xa0;No visual detection of this drone was acquired. &#xa0;The drone came down east of Kouvola in an area where radar tracking did not work. Police communicated on Sunday that the drone had come down in the area of Luumäki. &#xa0;Around the spot where the drone had crashed, parts of the drone spread on the ground have been found, and looking for more parts has continued by authorities working together. &#xa0; <h2 style="margin-bottom: 11px;">Procedure in peacetime if a drone is detected entering the airspace</h2> A fixed radar network conducts surveillance of the airspace 24/7 &#xa0;Surveillance by fixed radar is complemented with sensors, including with mobile short-range surveillance radar now that surveillance has been increased.&#xa0; If an unidentified aircraft, a drone, for example, is approaching Finland’s airspace, the Air Force increases readiness by scrambling a quick reaction alert aircraft to conduct an inspection sortie. &#xa0;The number of aircraft in quick reaction readiness will be increased if necessary to the level required by the situation.&#xa0; In peacetime, fighter jets are the primary means of intercepting drones. &#xa0;Finland’s air defence covers approximately 1 300 kilometres of land border as well as extensive sea areas. &#xa0;Ground-based air defence systems can be moved, but they can not be placed just anywhere. &#xa0;This is why fighter jets are a central component of air defence capability. &#xa0; In addition to QRA aircraft, the Defence Forces increased air defence readiness by taking into use Navy vessels equipped with surveillance and air defence capabilities, and Army helicopters.&#xa0; <h2 style="margin-bottom: 11px;">Anti-drone defence must take the safety of the local population into consideration</h2> The Defence Forces would have had the readiness to shoot down the drone that had fallen near Kouvola, but to avoid collateral damage, fire was not used. &#xa0;A decision to shoot down a drone can be made based on an assessment of whether the situation at hand poses an immediate and serious threat to the safety of the nation. &#xa0;In the situation, the threat posed by the drone must be considered against the risk posed to the local population. &#xa0;From the safety perspective it is clear that in this kind of situation, missile or artillery fire is not used over populated areas.&#xa0; <h2 style="margin-bottom: 11px;">No immediate military threat is directed against Finland</h2> Ukraine continued its drone strikes against Russia last night, too. &#xa0;So far, no more foreign drones have strayed into Finland.&#xa0; Information regarding specifics of operational activities, including regulation of readiness or other readiness measures will not be disseminated in detail. &#xa0; The Defence Forces monitors the airspace closely and we continue to maintain readiness. &#xa0;All military activity especially in our country’s neighbouring areas is always worth keeping track on and, understandably, causes concern. &#xa0;However, no immediate military threat is directed against Finland.&#xa0; Tue, 31 Mar 2026 08:59:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-forces-activities-are-visible-in-southeast-finland 2026-03-31T08:59:00Z The Defence Forces safeguard Finland’s territorial integrity under all circumstances https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-defence-forces-safeguard-finland-s-territorial-integrity-under-all-circumstances The Defence Forces, together with their allies, are closely monitoring developments in the surrounding region. Our operations have been planned in such a way that we monitor and secure our country’s territorial integrity under all conditions, every day of the year. We maintain a real-time situational picture of military activity in our vicinity and adjust our readiness as needed. The Defence Forces have prepared to counter unmanned aerial vehicles as part of a layered air defence system, and they have the capability to respond to UAVs that intentionally or unintentionally enter our airspace. In the current situation, these activities may be particularly visible in southwestern Finland and over the eastern Gulf of Finland, as Air Force fighter aircraft and Navy readiness vessels carry out their missions. &#xa0; &#xa0; Fri, 27 Mar 2026 06:27:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-defence-forces-safeguard-finland-s-territorial-integrity-under-all-circumstances 2026-03-27T06:27:00Z Brigadier General Jami Virta becomes Deputy Chief of Staff, Administration of the Defence Command Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/brigadier-general-jami-virta-becomes-deputy-chief-of-staff-administration-of-the-defence-command-finland Virta has served as the commander of the Pori Brigade since 2024. Previously, he has served, among other roles, as Deputy Head of Department and Sector Chief at the Defence Command, as well as Battalion Commander at the Karelian Brigade. He was promoted to Brigadier General on 4 June 2024. The Chief of Staff, Administration is a new position within the general staff. The Chief of Staff, Administration coordinates the additional duties within the Defence Command that Finland's NATO membership has brought. &#xa0; Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:06:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/brigadier-general-jami-virta-becomes-deputy-chief-of-staff-administration-of-the-defence-command-finland 2026-03-20T11:06:00Z A Research Bulletin on the Conceptualisation of Cognitive Warfare in the NATO Framework https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/a-research-bulletin-on-the-conceptualisation-of-cognitive-warfare-in-the-nato-framework The review draws on publicly available sources and focuses on how cognitive warfare has been defined and framed in NATO documents and discussions. The review applies a conceptual research approach. First, it analyses what kind of image of war is conveyed by NATO’s definitions and conceptualisations of cognitive warfare. Second, it considers what kinds of thinking and operational models the concept of cognitive warfare requires from society and the armed forces. The review is informed by ongoing research conducted within the multinational Multinational Capabilities Development Campaign (MCDC) project (2025–2026), which is producing a book on ways to counter cognitive warfare. The forthcoming volume, Countering Cognitive Warfare, emphasises measures aimed at strengthening resilience at both the societal and individual levels. In its concluding section, the research bulletin assesses how these resilience-based approaches respond to NATO’s cognitive warfare concept. It also highlights additional areas of activity that require further development. 2026:2&#xa0;<a data-extension="pdf" data-size="369kB" data-uuid="d9b617e8-5e00-2fdf-84c9-730b1a9abd9e" href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi:8443/documents/1951253/2815786/PVTUTKL_Tutkimuskatsaus_2026-2_Kaarkoski_en.pdf/d9b617e8-5e00-2fdf-84c9-730b1a9abd9e?t=1772545283130" target="_blank">NATO's Concept of Cognitive Warfare</a> <h2>Additional information</h2> Senior scientist, PhD, docent Miina Kaarkoski <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/web/tutkimus/fdra-publications" target="_blank">Previous research bulletins can be found here.</a> Thu, 05 Mar 2026 07:17:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/a-research-bulletin-on-the-conceptualisation-of-cognitive-warfare-in-the-nato-framework 2026-03-05T07:17:00Z Commander of Allied Special Operations Forces Command (SOFCOM) visited Finland – also a special operations forces’ winter exercise in Lapland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-allied-special-operations-forces-command-sofcom-visited-finland-also-a-special-operations-forces-winter-exercise-in-lapland The visit was hosted by the Finnish Defence Forces’ Deputy Chief of Staff Operations, Lieutenant General Kari Nisula. The programme highlighted Finland’s vital expertise in cold weather and Arctic training, exercises and activities, which remains increasingly important as NATO continues to reinforce its posture in the High North through NATO’s Arctic Sentry. First, Lieutenant General Angle visited Defence Command Finland where he got an overview of the Finnish Defence Forces’ activities and the tasks and duties of the Finnish special operations forces both nationally and as part of a NATO operation. Second, led by the Utti Jaeger Regiment Commander Colonel Kimmo Nordberg, he visited the regiment’s winter exercise, thus getting a demonstration of the special operations forces’ activities. In the Tsarmitunturi Wilderness Area, Lieutenant General Angle met conscripts in paratrooper training and contractual military personnel participating in the Defence Forces’ Special Forces Course. He also participated in the SERE training which was a part of the exercise. On the final day of the visit in Rovajärvi, Lieutenant General Angle was introduced to the multinational planning of the special operations conducted as part of the exercise and their execution in Arctic conditions. In this context he also met personnel from the Finnish as well as some Allied countries’ Special Operations Forces. During his visit to Finland, Lieutenant General Angle was also introduced to the operation of the Border Guard, which gave him on overview of the Finnish comprehensive security model. He also visited the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats. The Finnish Defence Forces’ Deputy Chief of Staff Operations, Lieutenant General Kari Nisula says about the purpose of the visit: <cite>“NATO integration and the ability to execute operations are progressing also with regard to special operations forces. This visit consolidated our mutual understanding of special forces operations and their development. One of our special areas of expertise is executing operations in challenging Arctic conditions, the experiences and skills of which we are happy to share with the Alliance. Collective expertise is the foundation of readiness.” </cite> According to Lieutenant General Nisula, the best part of the visit was participation in observation and actions in the field:&#xa0; <cite>“We were physically there, in the centre of action. I really appreciate Lieutenant General Angle’s hands on approach and interest in our activities. The visit was extremely fruitful for both sides.”</cite> Lieutenant General Angle was impressed by the Finnish expertise. He considers the Finnish special operations forces to be critical not only for Finland's national defence but also for NATO: <cite>“Finland’s Special Forces, the Utti Jaeger Regiment, represent exactly the kind of capability the Alliance depends on – highly trained, innovative, and ready to operate in the most demanding environments. During my visit, I was deeply impressed by the professionalism of Finland’s Special Forces, from their leaders to the conscripts serving alongside them, and by the exceptional level of readiness they sustain in Arctic winter conditions. Their insight, innovation, and operational experience are critical not only for Finland’s national defence, but also for strengthening the Allied SOF enterprise as a whole. In today’s security environment, where hybrid threats challenge our societies across borders and below the threshold of open conflict, Finland’s ability to integrate Special Operations Forces with strong national resilience is especially important. Border guards also play a vital role in this effort – serving on the front line of deterrence, situational awareness, and the protection of Allied territory. Finland’s Special Forces are a valued contributor to our collective security, and their expertise in the High North, alongside the vigilance and professionalism of border security forces, will continue to be an important asset for NATO.”</cite> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:02:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-allied-special-operations-forces-command-sofcom-visited-finland-also-a-special-operations-forces-winter-exercise-in-lapland 2026-02-25T14:02:00Z Launch of the Second Pohjanmaa-Class Multi-Role Corvette Approaching https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/launch-of-the-second-pohjanmaa-class-multi-role-corvette-approaching &#xa0; Outfitting of the vessel will continue during late winter in the assembly hall of Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC), and the launch will take place during the spring. Construction of all four vessels under the Squadron 2020 project is now underway. Construction of the first corvette began in 2023. The vessel was launched in May 2025 and is currently being outfitted. Construction of the second corvette began in October 2024, the keel was laid in May 2025, and the hull was completed at the end of December 2025. Construction of the third Pohjanmaa-class multi-role corvette began in 2025, and its keel was laid at the Rauma shipyard in January 2026. At the same time, construction of the fourth and final corvette commenced. The objective of the Squadron 2020 project is to deliver the four Pohjanmaa-class multi-role corvettes to the Finnish Navy by the end of this decade. The vessels are designed to remain in service well into the 2050s. Rauma Marine Constructions Oy (RMC) and its subsidiary RMC Defence Oy are building the Navy’s multi-role corvettes, which are designed for the demanding and variable conditions of the Baltic Sea. The contracting authority is the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command. The corvettes are designed for year-round operations and are capable of minelaying, anti-submarine warfare, protection of maritime traffic, and sustained long-term operations at sea. Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:31:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/launch-of-the-second-pohjanmaa-class-multi-role-corvette-approaching 2026-02-24T09:31:00Z The Finnish Defence Forces initiated coordinated innovation activities https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-finnish-defence-forces-initiated-coordinated-innovation-activities The main task of the innovation activities is to identify and gather the Finnish Defence Forces' internal needs and challenges, which can be addressed quickly through innovations. The innovation activities enable new or modified products and working methods to be rapidly implemented to strengthen the defence system. The current processes for long-term planning and development of capabilities are often lengthy and carefully structured. The need for these current processes will continue in the future, but the innovation activities complement them with the aim of identifying, evaluating, developing, building, and implementing innovations to meet both identified and unidentified capability needs. <h2>The Innovation Unit – a practical actor that connects innovation players</h2> To achieve the objectives of innovation activities, a defence-oriented innovation unit will be established under the Finnish Defence Research Agency, which is expected to reach full operational capacity by 2026. The unit will act as a coordinator for the overall innovation effort and as a point of contact for both the Finnish Defence Forces and for national and international stakeholders and networks. The establishment of the innovation unit does not limit or exclude existing projects, programmes, or innovation activities, but complements them and supports current operations. The Defence Forces' innovation unit is a practical actor that combines research, development and key players in performance building. The unit's role is to create networks that support smooth innovation activities to the benefit of both the Defence Forces and the national industry. The unit also supports the national industry in the implementation of innovations. To further develop promising innovations, the innovation unit can support the supplier either with its own resources or help network with other actors. The Defence Forces' initiative for innovation activities brings actors from the Defence Forces as well as companies, universities, colleges, research institutes and ecosystems closer together – without forgetting citizens and the reserve. As part of this, the Defence Forces is developing the ability to communicate more openly about the Defence Forces' needs and challenges to actors outside the Defence Forces to guide innovation activities and develop solutions. <h2>Artificial intelligence competence centre in collaboration with the innovation unit</h2> FDF AI Centre of Excellence also began its operations at the beginning of 2026. The use of artificial intelligence opens up new opportunities to streamline operations and develop capabilities. The Competence Centre for Artificial Intelligence plays a central role in this work. The AI Competence Centre collaborates with the Defence Forces' innovation unit. The operations are based on the Defence Forces' data and AI strategy and support the implementation of the data programme. The data programme is a programme that supports the development of cross-cutting expertise.&#xa0; The personnel is gradually increasing. The competence centre is geographically distributed across Finland. During the establishment phase, the operational core has started at the C5 School in Riihimäki. Fri, 20 Feb 2026 13:08:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-finnish-defence-forces-initiated-coordinated-innovation-activities 2026-02-20T13:08:00Z Finnish Defence Forces and allies to exercise arctic defence in Cold Response 26 https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-forces-and-allies-to-exercise-arctic-defence-in-cold-response-26 Key objectives for the exercise include strengthening NATO’s northern area, operating jointly under demanding conditions, as well as testing of receiving allied forces and logistics.&#xa0; The exercise will be participated by c. 7,500 soldiers in Finland. The strength of the Finnish forces will be c. 3,500 soldiers, of whom c. 2,000 are reservists. The rest, c. 4,000 soldiers will arrive in Finland from Sweden, the U.S. A., France, Italy, and the U.K.&#xa0; <h2>Seamless co-operation strengthens defence of the north</h2> The Finnish Defence Forces will assign personnel to NATO’s different commands according to degrees of authority for the duration of the exercise.&#xa0;The multinational force to exercise in Finland will be led by NATO’s Multi-Corps Land Component Command (MCLCC-NW) that will be reinforced by the Alliance’s personnel.&#xa0; The Army-led exercise will primarily take place at the Rovajärvi training area. In addition to Finnish soldiers, troops from Sweden, the United States, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom will participate, with the largest unit being a Swedish division headquarters with its staff and c. 2,000-soldier-strong force. The exercise enhances the operational interoperability between conscripts and allies at all levels of operations. The Air Force will support the entity by the F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets from the Lapland and Karelia Air Wings. Finnish fighter jets will operate across an extensive area that covers the airspace of northern Norway, Sweden, and Finland, with the focus in Finland on the area between Rovaniemi, Sodankylä, Utsjoki, and Kilpisjärvi. The Finnish Defence Forces’ Logistics Command will ensure the success of the exercise by providing for receiving the international forces and logistics support.&#xa0;The Finnish Defence Forces’ C5 Agency will execute the most substantial refresher exercise in its history that will have a C5 system battalion comprising nearly c. 350 reservists set up and sustain the critical signals networks necessary for the maneuvering forces.&#xa0; The Finnish Defence Forces’ exercise entity will be led by the Defence Command ACOS J7 Training, Brigadier General Manu Tuominen, and the Army livex phase in Lapland will be led by the Commander of the Jaeger Brigade, Colonel Marko Kivelä. Utti Jaeger Regiment will also have exercises in Northern Finland’s harsh winter conditions during February and March. The exercise activities will involve the Defence Forces’ personnel, conscripts, reservists and soldiers from the Allied countries, about 1,000 persons in total. The exercise area is vast, covering the Finnish territory north of the towns of Oulu and Nurmes. Exercise operations are carried out mostly in small teams. <h2>Impact on flow of traffic</h2> Major force movement will have a significant impact on traffic in the northern area. Concentration marches will be visible on the road network especially before the livex phase during 9.–11.3. and after its completion during 19.–21.3. Road users are asked to reserve a bit more time than usual and exert special vigilance in the vicinity of major detachments on the move. <h2>Arctic security as part of a more extensive entity</h2> Cold Response 26 is a part of NATO’s enhanced presence Arctic Sentry that reinforces the Alliance’s capability and permanent presence in northern areas. Arctic Sentry is activity by which NATO responds to the changed security situation and increased interest in the arctic area. NATO’s Arctic Sentry -activity in the north is led by Joint Force Command Norfolk (JFC Norfolk.) NATO’s presence in the north conveys the message of the member nations’ commitment to safeguarding regional peace and security also in Finland.&#xa0; Fri, 20 Feb 2026 08:36:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-forces-and-allies-to-exercise-arctic-defence-in-cold-response-26 2026-02-20T08:36:00Z A new Director of Communications for Finnish Defence Forces https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/a-new-director-of-communications-for-finnish-defence-forces Colonel Huhtinen is currently serving as the head of the Department of Leadership and Military Pedagogy at the National Defence University. He has previously served, among other roles, as a military professor and teacher at the National Defence University, in crisis management assignments in Kosovo (SOK) and Afghanistan (SKJA). He graduated as a General Staff Officer in 2000 and was promoted to Colonel in 2023. Lieutenant Colonel Mikko Illi has been ordered to serve as Deputy Commander of the Kainuu Brigade from 1 March 2026. He is currently serving as Deputy Head of Department at the Army Staff. Mon, 16 Feb 2026 13:31:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/a-new-director-of-communications-for-finnish-defence-forces 2026-02-16T13:31:00Z Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces awarded French peacekeepers international service medals https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-the-finnish-defence-forces-awarded-french-peacekeepers-international-service-medals To celebrate the cooperation during the past months, Commander of the Finnish Defence forces awarded the outgoing commander of the FCR, Colonel Louis-Guilhem Larchet, and the outgoing Commander of the French pioneer company, Captain Charles Arviset, the Finnish International Service Medals. The Finnish International Service Medal can be considered equal to medals granted for service abroad by the UN, EU, NATO or some other countries, and to mission-specific peacekeeping or crisis management operation medals. Colonel Larchet has successfully integrated the Finnish and French forces into a coherent whole, making sure that the efforts of everybody serving in the FCR supports those of the Finnish force.&#xa0; The unit led by Pioneer Company Commander Arviset has supported the operation of the Finnish infantry company in an exemplary manner.&#xa0; Due to the current security situation and the tasks of the infantry company, the support provided by the engineer company has been paramount for the Finnish force to carry out its operational tasks. Thu, 12 Feb 2026 14:32:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-the-finnish-defence-forces-awarded-french-peacekeepers-international-service-medals 2026-02-12T14:32:00Z The basic training phase for the January conscription batch ends with the military oath and military affirmation ceremonies https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-basic-training-phase-for-the-january-conscription-batch-ends-with-the-military-oath-and-military-affirmation-ceremonies The six-week basic training phase concludes with the military oath and affirmation ceremonies. During basic training, conscripts have learned fundamental soldiering skills and laid the foundation for further training.&#xa0;Conscripts learn the general grounds for military activities, as well as the soldier’s basic skills in survival, protection and security. Throughout the phase, conscripts have also been taught about their rights and duties as soldiers, as well as the significance of the oath and affirmation. Each conscript has the choice to either swear the oath or make the affirmation. The beginning of the military oath is as follows: "I promise and swear before Almighty and All-Knowing God to be a loyal and faithful citizen of the Republic of Finland. I shall serve my country honestly and, to the best of my ability, seek and promote its benefit and welfare." The military affirmation is nearly identical, but the promise to serve the country is given in the name of honor and conscience: "I promise and pledge through my honor and conscience to be a loyal and faithful citizen of the Republic of Finland. I shall serve my country honestly and, to the best of my ability, seek and promote its benefit and welfare." With the oath and affirmation ceremonies, conscripts are appointed to the crew service rank.&#xa0;After the basic training phase, the training branch period begins, during which conscripts deepen their knowledge of the essential skills and knowledge required in their respective training branches and gain the ability to use their personal and section-specific weapons or systems in combat situations. During service, conscripts learn a wide variety of skills, including teamwork, taking responsibility, and problem-solving. These skills are valuable not only in military service but also in other areas of life. <h2 data-end="2167" data-start="2105">Family Members Are Warmly Welcome to Attend the Ceremonies</h2> Family members of the conscripts are warmly invited to the ceremonies. The military oath and affirmation ceremonies are solemn and communal events that also symbolize the individual's transition into a broader whole. The presence of family members plays a significant role in this new phase of the young person's life. Depending on the unit, family members may also have the opportunity to visit the garrison, learn about the concscripts' leisure activities, and view the equipment of the Finnist Defence Forces. At the end of the announcement, you will find links to additional information specific to each unit's event schedule. If you are unable to attend, check the additional information to see if there is an option to watch the ceremony via a live stream. <h2 style="margin-top: 8px; margin-bottom: 8px;">Military oath and military affirmation ceremonies for conscription batch 1/26:</h2> &#xa0; <h3>Army</h3> Jaeger Brigade <ul> <li>Time: 14.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Sodankylä and Rovaniemi</li> </ul> Guards Jaeger Regiment <ul> <li>Time: 13.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Helsinki</li> </ul> Kainuu Brigade <ul> <li>Time: 13.2.2026 and 14.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Oulu and Kajaani</li> </ul> Karelian Brigade <ul> <li>Time: 12. -13.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Pahkajärvi</li> </ul> Army School <ul> <li>Time: 7.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Hamina</li> </ul> Armored Brigade <ul> <li>Time: 12.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Parolanummi</li> </ul> Pori Brigade <ul> <li>Time: 13.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Säkylä and Niinisalo</li> </ul> Utti Jaeger Regiment <ul> <li>Time: 13.2.2026</li> <li>Place: Utti</li> </ul> <h3>Navy</h3> Coastal Brigade <ul> <li>Time: 12.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Upinniemi</li> </ul> Uusimaa Brigade <ul> <li>Time: 14.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Dragsvik</li> </ul> <h3>Air force</h3> Air Force Academy <ul> <li>Time: 13.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Tikkakoski</li> </ul> Karelian Air Force <ul> <li>Time: 14.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Rissala</li> </ul> Satakunta Air Force <ul> <li>Time: 12.2.202</li> <li>Location: Lempäälä</li> </ul> <h3>Border Guard</h3> North Karelia Border Guard, Border Jaeger Company <ul> <li>Time: 14.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Joensuu</li> </ul> Border and Coast Guard School, Special Border Guard Company Coming in the summer Lapland Border Guard, Border Jaeger Company <ul> <li>Time: 13.2.2026</li> <li>Location: Ivalo</li> </ul> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 13:53:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-basic-training-phase-for-the-january-conscription-batch-ends-with-the-military-oath-and-military-affirmation-ceremonies 2026-02-11T13:53:00Z Finnish Military Intelligence Review 2026 has been published https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-military-intelligence-review-2026-has-been-published Finland's military intelligence service is continuously developing as a provider of national security. This development is guided by the unstable global situation, Finland's position as a neighbouring country to Russia, the new working methods associated with NATO membership, as well as the creation of a shared situational awareness and the digitalised environment. The purpose of the Military Intelligence Review is to provide a public and up-to-date picture of current issues in military intelligence and developments in the security environment. It contains no information that should be kept secret, but describes key phenomena, threat assessments and trends that affect security. The message for 2026 is clear: the security environment is increasingly complex and requires continuous monitoring and foresight. The public overview of military intelligence 2026 notes, among other things, the following: <ul> <li>Russia continues its efforts to restore its global superpower status, and the war in Ukraine is ongoing. Russia is continuing its defence reform, but the changes have so far not significantly increased Russia's military capacity in the vicinity of Finland. Russia's extensive influence in Europe has increased over the past few years.</li> <li>The shift in power relations in the Middle East has become increasingly evident.</li> <li>The Baltic Sea has become a central point in international politics. Tensions have increased significantly since the beginning of 2022.</li> <li>The global security situation is characterised by a return to power politics and increasing tensions worldwide.</li> </ul> Finland's operational environment remains tense. According to military intelligence, it is, however, unlikely that Finland would face an immediate military threat in 2026. The development of the security environment is monitored continuously and systematically. The Military Intelligence Review for the year 2026 can be found <a href="/documents/1948673/8274776/PV_sotilastiedustelu_2026_EN.pdf/e33f49ee-2dcb-1e50-b0d6-41d02c32b926?t=1769062352773">here</a>.&#xa0; The Military Intelligence Review for the year 2025 can be found <a href="/documents/1948673/0/PV_sotilastiedustelu_raportti_EN_2025_web.pdf/56d09bc1-a921-a9be-8bdd-789c23c14bc8?t=1769065679507">here</a>. Thu, 22 Jan 2026 07:08:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-military-intelligence-review-2026-has-been-published 2026-01-22T07:08:00Z Construction of the final Pohjanmaa-class multi-role corvette has begun https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/construction-of-the-final-pohjanmaa-class-multi-role-corvette-has-begun The keel of the third Pohjanmaa-class multi-role corvette was laid at the Rauma shipyard during a ceremonial event on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, in line with the practices applied to the previous vessels in the programme. At the same time, steel cutting was initiated for the fourth and final multi-role corvette of the Squadron 2020 programme, marking the start of its production phase leading towards assembly. Keel laying is a traditional and symbolically significant milestone, marking the tangible start of hull assembly. During the ceremony, the keel block was placed on the building supports and traditional lucky coins were positioned beneath it. Steel cutting represents the first concrete phase in the physical construction of a vessel and signifies the official commencement of production. Representatives of the Defence Forces Logistics Command, the Navy, RMC, as well as system and classification society providers attended the ceremonies. The objective of the Squadron 2020 programme is to deliver all four Pohjanmaa-class multi-role corvettes to the Finnish Navy by the end of this decade. Construction of the first corvette began in October 2023; the vessel was launched in May 2025 and is currently being outfitted. Construction of the second corvette commenced in October 2024, its keel was laid in May 2025, and the hull was completed at the end of December 2025. Construction of the third corvette began in August 2025, and its keel has now been laid. Squadron 2020 is one of the Finnish Defence Forces’ strategic capability programmes. Its aim is to replace seven ageing naval vessels with four modern, ice-capable Pohjanmaa-class multi-role corvettes. The programme strengthens Finland’s maritime defence capabilities and operational readiness in a changed security environment. <a href="https://merivoimat.fi/en/pohjanmaa-class" target="_blank">Read more about the Finnish Navy’s Squadron 2020 project.</a> &#xa0; Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:01:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/construction-of-the-final-pohjanmaa-class-multi-role-corvette-has-begun 2026-01-14T12:01:00Z Supreme Allied Commander Europe visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/supreme-allied-commander-europe-visited-finland-1 The program of the visit included discussion of current issues, particularly from the perspective of Finland’s NATO integration, as well as a visit to the Southeast Finland Border Guard. “Finland’s integration into NATO has progressed rapidly, and we have a clear direction ahead of us. The transferring of Finland, along with Sweden and Denmark, to Joint Force Command Norfolk’s area of responsibility, and the Northern Multi Corps Land Component and Forward Land Forces becoming operational are good examples of this progress. The Alliance is strongly present in the area by participating in joint exercises, contributing to situation awareness sharing and planning cooperation. Finland’s national defence capability and comprehensive security ensure a strong foundation for the development of deterrence and collective defence”, General Jaakkola said summing up the discussions. “My visit to Finland, including its border, gave me a better understanding of why time, space, and forces matter to the country and its defence forces, and why the High North and the Arctic matter, said U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, Supreme Allied Commander Europe. “They matter to me too.” He added, “And the Finish Defence Forces and Finnish Border Guards are strong forces, and an integral part of the nation’s comprehensive security and NATO’s deterrence and defence plans. It was an honour to visit with them the last two days and to see their ‘sisu’.” Supreme Allied Commander Europe commands NATO military operations and serves as the commander of Allied Command Operations, ACO. Allied Command Operations is responsible for the planning and execution of NATO’s operations. Allied Command Operations is one of NATO’s two strategic commands. The Commander of Allied Command Transformation, ACT visited Finland in December. Fri, 09 Jan 2026 13:21:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/supreme-allied-commander-europe-visited-finland-1 2026-01-09T13:21:00Z Finnish Defence Forces to participate in the exercise Cold Response 2026 https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-forces-to-participate-in-the-exercise-cold-response-2026 Cold Response 2026 is a multinational military exercise with troops. Led by Norway, the exercise will involve thousands of personnel from the land, maritime, air, and special operations forces of various allied nations. Finland will participate primarily with Army and Air Force units and equipment. The live phase of the exercise will be in March 2026.&#xa0; The exercise will focus in particular on defence capability reinforcement in an arctic operational environment in cooperation with allies. An important component of the exercise will be receiving allied forces and starting up activities in Finland. &#xa0; The exercise will contribute to cooperation of the Nordic countries and NATO as well as reinforce international cooperation and readiness to react to crises. It will support regional security and improve feasibility of joint defence plans.&#xa0; More specific information on timetables and participants will be released later. Wed, 07 Jan 2026 12:15:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-forces-to-participate-in-the-exercise-cold-response-2026 2026-01-07T12:15:00Z Supreme Allied Commander Transformation Visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/supreme-allied-commander-transformation-visited-finland The Allied Command Transformation (ACT) is responsible for the strategic development of the Alliance. This work is led by the Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (SACT), Admiral Pierre Vandier. The main themes of the visit were technology and innovation. Admiral Vandier was introduced to Finnish defence technology during company visits. Discussions also focused on the development of the Finnish Defence Forces’ artificial intelligence capabilities and cooperation with industry partners in AI technology. The visit also included a tour of the Finnish Naval Academy at Suomenlinna. According to the Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces, General Janne Jaakkola, the changing security environment requires not only traditional strategic planning and defence capability building but also faster development. “The security environment and battlefield are undergoing changes. It is important that we stay abreast of this development – from both a national defence perspective and that of deterrence and collective defence. Rapid development is possible through close cooperation between the defence administration and businesses. We introduced Finnish companies and solutions to Admiral Vandier, which can be, and are, beneficial to the alliance and our allies”, General Jaakkola says. “We are part of a modern alliance that is constantly looking for new ways to evolve and promote common goals”, he continues. Admiral Vandier’s visit to Finland is part of a broader strategic planning and development effort within the alliance, aimed at strengthening NATO’s defence capabilities and preparing for future threats. Admiral Vandier emphasizes the importance of adaptability and efficiency. He states: “Finland demonstrates key characteristics of modern defence: societal resilience, fast innovation, and the effective integration of emerging technologies into operational capabilities. The ability to connect military requirements with civilian resilience and industrial capacity within increasingly compressed timelines is essential. For NATO, this underscores a central priority: innovation must result in deployable and interoperable capabilities at the speed and scale required by today’s security environment. This requires closer engagement with industry, accelerated experimentation, and a deliberate reduction in the time needed to move from concept development to operational fielding. Time has become a critical factor in military effectiveness, and adapting defence processes accordingly is essential to ensure the Alliance is ready for the fight tonight and for the fight tomorrow.” Thu, 18 Dec 2025 15:43:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/supreme-allied-commander-transformation-visited-finland 2025-12-18T15:43:00Z Unmanned aerial system capability strengthened through additional procurements https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/unmanned-aerial-system-capability-strengthened-through-additional-procurements The unmanned aerial systems are procured by the Defence Forces Logistics Command through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA). The procurement utilises the framework agreement between NSPA and the Finnish company Boston Group Oy. - The layered employment of diverse and continuously evolving unmanned aerial capabilities is a key element of modern warfare. This procurement strengthens ISR and target acquisition conducted with unmanned systems. The Parrot drones currently in service have provided a solid foundation for micro UAS training and operations within the Defence Forces, and their use will continue. The Parrot Anafi UKR drone now being procured represents a significant improvement in capability compared to existing systems and has been developed based on observations and experiences from Ukraine, says Lieutenant Colonel Jaakko Kauppinen, Head of Army Aviation at the Army Headquarters. The value of the procurement, including VAT, is approximately EUR 15 million. Thu, 18 Dec 2025 10:47:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/unmanned-aerial-system-capability-strengthened-through-additional-procurements 2025-12-18T10:47:00Z Temporary changes to customer service of persons liable for military service during 5-12 January 2026 https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/temporary-changes-to-customer-service-of-persons-liable-for-military-service-during-5-12-january-2026 While maintenance is in progress, you cannot return the following forms at MyMilitary during 5-12 11:00 January: <ul> <li>Application for changing date of entry into service / service location</li> <li>Notification of change in the state of health</li> </ul> While maintenance is in progress, you cannot return the following forms at MyMilitary during 7 16:00 - 12 January 11:00: <ul> <li>Application to unarmed service</li> <li>Voluntary military service for women &amp; Questionnaire for examination of health</li> <li>Applying to the military crisis management recruiting pool</li> <li>Refresher training exercise notice of reception (Part B)</li> <li>Update request for personal information</li> <li>Voluntary exercise notice of reception (Part B)</li> <li>Application for exemption from a refresher training exercise</li> <li>Application for exemption from military service on the basis of multiple nationality</li> </ul> In case you need to address your written communications to the Regional Office at this time, you may fill in the forms available at <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/asiointi/lomakkeet">puolustusvoimat.fi/asiointi/lomakkeet</a>, and return the printout to your own Regional Office, which will then provide its decision on the matter by a letter with acknowledgement of receipt only. You may look up your own Regional Offices’ contact information: • &#xa0; &#xa0;sign in <a href="https://omaintti.fi/en">MyMilitary</a>, or • &#xa0; &#xa0;go to <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/aluetoimistot/loyda-aluetoimistosi">puolustusvoimat.fi/aluetoimistot/loyda-aluetoimistosi</a>. Wed, 17 Dec 2025 10:35:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/temporary-changes-to-customer-service-of-persons-liable-for-military-service-during-5-12-january-2026 2025-12-17T10:35:00Z Medium Range air-to-air missiles to be procured for F-35 multirole fighters https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/medium-range-air-to-air-missiles-to-be-procured-for-f-35-multirole-fighters The AMRAAMs will supplement the F-35 multirole fighter system’s capability. The AIM-120D-3 variant is the newest and most advanced version of the missile. The US congress authorised the sale of the AMRAAMs, manufactured by Raytheon (RTX Corporation), in September 2025. The first missile deliveries will coincide with the F-35s entering into service. The procurement includes the missiles, manuals and technical documentation, spare parts and accessories, transportation services as well as manufacturer and supplier training, repair and support services as per the Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA). The procurement contract also includes services offered by the US government. - Back when the F-35 procurement decision was made, Finland wanted to make sure that we could equip the fighters with the most modern weapon systems available.&#xa0; We are getting there now, thanks to the weapon procurement decisions that we have made earlier and the most recent one, the procurement of the AMRAAM D-3 variant, says F-35 Programme Director, Colonel (ret.) Henrik Elo. At the moment, the advanced medium range air-to-air missiles used in the F/A-18 Hornets are a key part of the Finnish Air Force’s medium range air-to-air capability. They are also used in the Army's ITO12 (NASAMS) surface-to-air system. The new D-3s will be used in the F-35s only. For more information about the F-35 programme: <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-hx-fighter-program">The F-35 Programme – the Defence Forces</a> &#xa0; For more information: Colonel (ret.) Henrik Elo F-35 Programme Director, Air Force Command Finland +358 (0)299 800 (The Defence Forces switchboard) Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:30:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/medium-range-air-to-air-missiles-to-be-procured-for-f-35-multirole-fighters 2025-12-12T11:30:00Z Field Devotional in the National Parade on the Independence Day in Kouvola on 6.12.2025 https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/field-devotional-in-the-national-parade-on-the-independence-day-in-kouvola-on-6.12.2025 In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the +Holy Spirit To start with, an excerpt from The Book of Our Land by Zacharias Topelius, our national poet: One morning I climbed up the ladder to the eave of our cottage roof. This opened my eyes to other cottages in the distance. And beyond our hayfield, the landscape seemed to abound in meadows, grainfields, winding roads, woods, and waterways. I knew that the world was wide, but I never thought it could be this wide. And, again, the thought came to mind that all this would be our land, our vast home. Then I stepped down the ladder. And my mother said to me: please come sit down here next to me so that I can explain all this to you. This land that you see from here and much more is Finland. Before your father, this land was inhabited by your grandfather. And before him, by his father and forefathers, and they lived not only in this house but in a number of houses across the land. This land was theirs, and therefore this land is our Fatherland, the legacy inherited by us, their children. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the publishing of The Book of Our Land by Zacharias Topelius. Describing our land, our people, the Finnish way of life, and nature, Topelius often emphasises the sense of community and hard work. This land has been built on the sense of community and hard work. And the results of this work have been inherited by the following generations. The era that witnessed the original publishing of The Book of Our Land was very different from today but certain similarities can still be identified.&#xa0; On this Independence Day, we again take a moment to consider what made Finland into what it is today: free, peaceful, and supported by valuable and cherished traditions. For us, this day signals history and values that continue to support us in the direction of tomorrow. Finnish core values – honesty, equality, independence, respect for nature, and sisu [the Finnish for grit, perseverance, courage, determination] – are built on the experiences and hard work of the previous generations. Also, Topelius describes these values aptly in The Book of Our Land: The nation has faced major damage and destruction more than many other have – and yet it has lived, trusted and gotten to its feet again – so the people are patient, self-denying, and vigorous. This description from 150 years back remains topical today. It is about people who are used to relying on their own work, counting on each other, and trusting that hardship will be followed by a better day. Topelius describes in The Book of Our Land also spirituality that brings solace and strength to many of us: Therefore, this nation is of the type with deep and solemn fear of God. For a thousand years, the nation has constantly worked to clear and cultivate its land – thus the people are diligent and resolutely persevering. This serves as a good reminder of how the Finnish mindset has always drawn from a deep inner stability – whether inspired by faith, hope, community, or nature and its peace. It is this type of silent trust and confidence that has reinforced and strengthened us through hardships and aided us in seeing the light also at times when the road has been rough. Strength has often been generated by cooperation. Lasting values form the core of Finnish mental resilience, and are the reason that Finland is strong today – a land capable of facing the future with peace of mind. These values are worth adhering to both today and tomorrow. Let us pray Holy Almighty, merciful God. On this Independence Day, we thank You for our free and independent Finland, and for all those generations who have before us worked and prayed here. We ask You to provide us with strength, wisdom and endurance to continue this legacy and fulfil our responsibility for the common good. This we pray in the name of our Lord and Redeemer Jesus Christ. Amen. Hymn 577, verses 1-2 &#xa0; Sat, 06 Dec 2025 13:11:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/field-devotional-in-the-national-parade-on-the-independence-day-in-kouvola-on-6.12.2025 2025-12-06T13:11:00Z The speech of Lieutenant General Jäämeri on the Finnish Independence Day 2025 https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-speech-of-lieutenant-general-jaameri-on-the-finnish-independence-day-2025 Today we stand flying our Blue Cross Flag commemorating with gratitude all those who fought to allow us to live in peace and determine our own future by ourselves. We celebrate our free and independent Finland – the nation and people who have built the future by sisu, courage, and shared responsibility. We do not take our independence for granted. We secure and safeguard it day in and day out – by words and deeds. The Independence Day is a special national celebration for sustainers of security. Today our thoughts are with all who serve in Finland and abroad in tasks of defence, conscripts, reservists, service personnel, and personnel serving in voluntary national defence. This is also the moment to give thanks to enablers of national defence, all who raise, support and listen: mothers, fathers, grandparents, spouses, our nearest and dearest. Finland’s independence signifies more than government status. It equals the opportunity to live free from fear in accordance with our values – to sustain our society based on freedom, integrity and justice. We Finns decide what we want from the future. Independence is also a state of mind: it is trust and confidence in being able to cope, create, and reform. Finland’s major strength is the general liability for military service. The envy of many others, the system brings us together and makes national defence a matter of the entire nation. Military service instructs in responsibility and resilience, cooperation and team effort, confidence and readiness to operate for others – skills that are needed both during a crisis and in peacetime. The general liability for military service is also a sign of trust. It shows that Finland has confidence in its citizens – that each and everyone is prepared to do their part for the general good. Our defence solution is based, first and foremost, not on technology or alliances, but rather on people – educated, motivated and Fatherland-loving Finns. Conscripts, your years as national defenders are in the early stages. Refresher training exercises and voluntary participation await. Discuss and think about ways to sustain and develop your skills and fitness in the reserve. The National Defence Associations welcome your contribution. Ladies and Gentlemen, I bring to Homeland greetings from Brussels, the European Union and NATO where I serve as Finland’s Military Representative. NATO reinforces its joint defence on a number of working lines. Also, in the European Union, security and defence are a key focus with more significant development than ever before.&#xa0; Finland’s settling in NATO has worked well. Yesterday we achieved the result of the thoroughly prepared grouping of Finland with Sweden and Denmark as part of Joint Force Command Norfolk and its Northern area of responsibility. NATO defends the North now as a whole, and the plans respond with new precision and at full power to security threats in the area. By becoming allied Finland is a part of the strongest defence alliance in history. Our security is enhanced most optimally, and the membership of Finland and Sweden also strengthens the alliance. Finland has an excellent reputation in NATO. We are a sovereign, capable and appreciated member whose defence competence is deemed worth listening to. The North Atlantic Treaty provides us with additional security and strong allies, but the same treaty requires that we sustain and develop our own capable and strong defence system. Finland’s security still asks for our own will and capability to defend every square metre of our Fatherland. Russia’s aggressive war in Ukraine has unfolded increased security risks concerning our security environment before our very eyes. The defence of Finland and Europe must be reinforced. We need the type of defence that is always stronger that the threat and that prevents a war. The joint commitment of NATO nations to allocate more funding for defence pursues this and concerns all member nations. Our allies’ contributions also increase our security, and as a nation on the front-line Finland is among nations that benefit the most. Unfortunately, the fate of Ukraine indicates that Finland’s military threat has not changed in any significant way over the decades. The Finnish Defence Forces have prepared for the threat by long-term development of the quality and quantity of forces and defence materiel. Alongside continuity, we need agility and innovation. We need inventiveness and the ability to swiftly adopt new technologies and solutions. Knowledgeable national defence industry is necessary for securing our security of supply and enabling our competitive advantage in the field of technologies. The task ahead is not an either-or -choice but rather a both-and -situation. &#xa0;Defence in the future will still require the present warfighting capabilities and adequate quantities as presupposed by a long-term conflict. It is necessary to find a new balance between the ratio of the present and the new. For this purpose, we collect information, do research, test, and analyse. The Finnish Defence Forces are not preparing for past or ongoing wars. The Finnish Defence Forces prepare for future wars. Esteemed Finns, we have a lot to feel fortunate about: peace, freedom, confidence, and a joint will to build a better future. All this is our national heritage that we want to cherish and defend. The previous generations have built a solid foundation, and now it is our turn to be at the helm. Let us raise, a three-fold Long Live to Independent Suomi Eläköön - eläköön - eläköön! &#xa0; Sat, 06 Dec 2025 13:11:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-speech-of-lieutenant-general-jaameri-on-the-finnish-independence-day-2025 2025-12-06T13:11:00Z The Commander of Joint Force Command Norfolk visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/nato-tiedote-1 During the visit, Vice Admiral Doug Perry familiarized himself with Finland's defense system and capabilities, as well as the military situation and operational environment in the region. Vice Admiral Perry visited, among other places, the Finnish Air Force in Tikkakoski and the headquarters of the Border Guard and the Hybrid Centre of Excellence in Helsinki. According to Lieutenant General Kari Nisula, Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, Finnish Defence Forces, Vice Admiral Perry's visit was significant for Finland. - &#xa0;&#xa0;It is valuable to familiarize oneself with the special characteristics of the Finnish area and our capabilities together with the commander of the Joint Force Command. This provides an opportunity to jointly examine how preparations for collective defense are made in the northern region, as well as the actions that make NATO's operations stronger and more ready. <a name="_Hlk215827277">&#xa0;- Interoperability is about aligning national systems so that forces, logistics, and information can move seamlessly across borders. Finland plays a key role in NATO’s overall security and visits such as this are important to witness firsthand the professionalism and interoperability of Finland’s defence force, the specific knowledge of the region and the unique resources Finland brings to NATO, </a>says Admiral Doug Perry, Commander, JFC Norfolk Joint Force Command Norfolk (JFC Norfolk [https://jfcnorfolk.nato.int/]) is a NATO operational headquarters focused on the Atlantic area and Northern Europe. It plans, executes, and supports alliance military operations and enhances security in the northern and Arctic regions. Additionally, JFC Norfolk protects strategic maritime routes in all operational environments and ensures sea lines of communication between Europe and North America. JFC Norfolk operates in close cooperation with the United States Navy's Second Fleet, with Vice Admiral Perry also serving as the commander of the US Navy's Second Fleet. Fri, 05 Dec 2025 14:03:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/nato-tiedote-1 2025-12-05T14:03:00Z Finland, Sweden and Denmark to be transferred to Joint Force Command Norfolk https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-sweden-and-denmark-to-be-transferred-to-joint-force-command-norfolk NATO’s Joint Force Commands (JFCs) in Naples, Brunssum and Norfolk are responsible for the planning, execution, and support of NATO operations. JFC Norfolk is responsible for the Atlantic and Arctic regions. JFC Norfolk's area of responsibility already includes Iceland, the United Kingdom, and Norway. This decision to realign defence strategies and adjust regional boundaries was taken by the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich. The reorganization is based on a military assessment and reflects the changing security situation, Finland and Sweden’s accession to NATO, and NATO’s commitment to securing the Arctic region. The decision is underpinned by strategic and operational requirements, including the need to reflect the geopolitical significance of the High North and secure transatlantic sea lines of communication. The goal is to ensure the security of NATO member states' populations. JFC Norfolk plays a strategic role in bridging North America and Europe and reinforces the Alliance’s ability to ensure coherent defence planning, command and control and sustainment of multi-domain operations across the region. JFC Norfolk Commander, VAdm Doug Perry, welcomes Finland, Sweden, and Denmark: “JFC Norfolk welcomes NATO Allies Denmark, Sweden and Finland to its regional area of responsibility, Joint Operating Area-Northwest, now including the Alliance’s longest land border with Russia.” “The transition underscores NATO’s commitment to collective deterrence and defence from the High North. JFC Norfolk will continue to work closely coordination with nations as a mission capable HQ alongside JFC Brunssum and JFC Naples and ready to deter potential adversaries and defend our sovereign territory across all domains, from seabed to space. Together, we are building a stronger Alliance”, he added. The Chief of Defence of Finland, Gen.&#xa0;Janne Jaakkola, spoke to the significance of the transition: “The transfer of responsibility of Denmark, Finland and Sweden to Joint Force Command Norfolk reflects the evolving security environment and new defence geometry in the Northern Europe. Transfer of responsibility realigns deterrence and collective defense to address current and future threats. It is always crucial to emphasize cooperation across all domains and regions, as threats do not respect geographical boundaries. Hence collaboration with JFC Brunssum continues and evolves.” According to General Jaakkola, Finland is still responsible for its own defense. “Finland is celebrating her independence tomorrow. We are and will always be responsible for our own security and defence, and Finland is ready and willing to continue contributing to deterrence and collective defense alongside with our allies.” According to the Chief of Defence of the Swedish Armed Forces, Gen.&#xa0;Michael Claesson, the High North, the Nordic region, and the Baltic Sea are deeply interconnected across all domains. “Activity in one area affects the others. By bringing the Nordic countries under a more coherent framework under JFC Norfolk, while remaining closely linked to JFC Brunssum, NATO strengthens unity of command and purpose. For Sweden, this is a historic and strategic moment, not as a separate actor, but as a security provider and an integrated part of the Alliance.” The Chief of Defence of the Danish Armed Forces, Gen.&#xa0;Michael W. Hyldgaard, states: “With this transition Denmark will be able to accelerate and strengthen the good and close cooperation regarding defence and deterrence together with our friends in the Nordic Countries. Additionally, this transition also means that the defence of the Kingdom of Denmark now will be gathered under one NATO command.” Fri, 05 Dec 2025 13:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-sweden-and-denmark-to-be-transferred-to-joint-force-command-norfolk 2025-12-05T13:00:00Z Finland and Sweden signed a new technical arrangement regarding the provision of host nation support https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-and-sweden-signed-a-new-technical-arrangement-regarding-the-provision-of-host-nation-support-1 “We will strengthen the defence of Finland and Sweden through a new technical arrangement on host nation support. We will have more precise practical arrangements for the provision of host nation support, and this will enable effective support for military activities in the territories of Finland and Sweden in all circumstances, including during crisis and emergency conditions,” Minister of Defence Häkkänen said. The technical arrangement between Finland and Sweden complements the Memorandum of Understanding concerning the provision of host nation support (FISE HNS MOU), making practical procedures and arrangements clearer. As the technical arrangement applies to several branches of government, it was prepared in cross-government cooperation. “I would like to thank the ministries involved in the preparation for their excellent cross-government cooperation,” Minister Häkkänen said. Authorised by Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen, Lieutenant General Vesa Virtanen, Chief of Defence Command Finland, signed the document on behalf of Finland. Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:41:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-and-sweden-signed-a-new-technical-arrangement-regarding-the-provision-of-host-nation-support-1 2025-12-03T08:41:00Z The Finnish Defence Forces and Patria Strengthen Their Strategic Partnership https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-finnish-defence-forces-and-patria-strengthen-their-strategic-partnership Through strategic partnerships, the Defence Forces secure critical services and capabilities on a long-term basis. It is the most comprehensive form of cooperation between the Defence Forces and industry. The partnerships include extensive information sharing, preparedness measures, and close cooperation to develop services and operating models during peacetime for the different stages of readiness enhancement. With every strategic partner, a Defence Economic Agreement is also concluded to guarantee the availability of personnel, facilities, and production capacity during emergency conditions. The updated agreement was signed by Major General Tero Ylitalo, Chief of the Defence Forces Logistics Command, and Esa Rautalinko, President and CEO of Patria. – Ensuring continuity of operations in a changing security environment is an essential part of our strategic partnership. The agreement signed today supports this objective, Major General Ylitalo states. The Defence Forces have developed strategic partnerships since the early 2000s. The aim has been to combine the expertise of the Defence Forces and Finnish industry to maintain and develop capabilities in a cost-effective manner. The partnerships cover a wide range of activities, from materiel maintenance and logistics solutions to command, control, and information systems as well as training. In addition to Patria, the Defence Forces have partnership cooperation with several companies and a training partnership with the National Defence Training Association of Finland (MPK). Together, these partnerships form an integral part of the national defence system and support the Defence Forces from normal conditions to emergency situations. <a href="https://logistiikkalaitos.fi/en/partnership">Read more about our partnerships.</a> (link) Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:02:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-finnish-defence-forces-and-patria-strengthen-their-strategic-partnership 2025-11-10T11:02:00Z NATO doctrine with national elements strengthens the Finnish Defence Forces' integration into the Alliance https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/kansalliset-lisaykset-sisaltava-naton-doktriini-sitoo-puolustusvoimat-vahvemmin-liittokuntaan Finland became a NATO member in April 2023. With NATO membership, NATO doctrines also steer the activities of the Finnish Defence Forces.&#xa0;AJP-01 defines the common principles and procedures that member states follow while working together in different security situations.&#xa0; AJP-01 is the basis of all other NATO doctrines. Doctrines of different functions, such as Allied Joint Doctrine for Intelligence, Counter-Intelligence and Security (AJP-2) and Allied Joint Doctrine for the Conduct of Operations (AJP-3), are all derived from AJP-01. Each NATO function also has their own additional doctrines. The now published AJP-01 FI is a version of AJP-01 that contains the Finnish national elements. The purpose of the document is to provide people with a uniform understanding of NATO’s operation and the ways in which it ties in with Finland’s national defence. The national elements provide an insight into Finland’s defence system and how comprehensive national defence is organized in Finland. The national elements are built on government reports on security and defence policy, government strategies and resolutions as well as on the Defence Forces’ documents. Each member state has its own special characteristics and national defence solution. This is why the member states may publish a national version of AJP-01, which takes into consideration the needs and defence system of the particular country.&#xa0; The Finnish Defence Forces Deputy Chief of Staff, Strategy, Major General Sami Nurmi, emphasizes that AJP-01 FI with Finnish national elements bridges NATO’s collective defence and Finland’s national defence: – Finland is a part of NATO’s collective defence. It is based on all of us working uniformly to achieve common goals. AJP-01 is NATO’s capstone doctrine that provides us with a common starting point and principles. The national elements in AJP-01 FI will provide an understanding of how Finland’s defence system and our model of comprehensive national defence connect to NATO’s collective defence and contribute to it. This doctrine will strengthen operational interoperability and collaboration with our Allies, and it will integrate NATO’s principles and terminology into our daily activities and training. At the NATO level, AJP-01 will be updated in the coming years, and we will naturally follow suit. Finland’s first NATO doctrine with national elements will anchor the Finnish Defence Forces more firmly in the Alliance and support developing Finland's defence capability together with our Allies and Partners. The doctrine will have an impact on the training and education of regular personnel, conscripts and reservists alike.&#xa0; Even as a NATO member, the basic principles of Finland's military defence will still be defined nationally. The decisions will be made in Finland, based on Finnish national interest. AJP-01 FI with Finnish National Elements will not restrict the independence of Finland’s defence policy, but support it and strengthen our interoperability with our Allies. Access the doctrine: <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi:8443/documents/1948673/0/Allied%20Joint%20Doctrine%20AJP-01%20FI.pdf/368e07b7-2615-ed12-8424-d80b6538dfe8/Allied%20Joint%20Doctrine%20AJP-01%20FI.pdf?t=1762439645558">AJP-01 FI&#xa0;</a> Thu, 06 Nov 2025 16:29:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/kansalliset-lisaykset-sisaltava-naton-doktriini-sitoo-puolustusvoimat-vahvemmin-liittokuntaan 2025-11-06T16:29:00Z Finland and Sweden sign Command and Control systems framework agreement with Bittium https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-and-sweden-sign-command-and-control-systems-framework-agreement-with-bittium Major General Tero Ylitalo, Chief of the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command, Johan Andersson, Deputy Director, Command and Information Systems Division of the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), and Tommi Kangas, Senior Vice President, Bittium Group’s Defense &amp; Security Business Segment, signed a framework agreement for command and control systems on November 5, 2025, in Tampere. The contracting party, Bittium Wireless Oy, produces command and control system solutions, such as tactical communication systems, as well as related products and services. The joint framework agreements between Finland and Sweden enable cost efficient procutement ofcertain products and services through larger purchase volumes. The framework agreements also enable joint product development with and Sweden with the supplier, and other countries can join them. Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:41:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-and-sweden-sign-command-and-control-systems-framework-agreement-with-bittium 2025-11-05T11:41:00Z NATO to conduct historical ordnance disposal and inspect critical infrastructure in Gulf of Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/nato-to-conduct-historical-ordnance-disposal-and-inspect-critical-infrastructure-in-gulf-of-finland Baltic Sentry activities launched by NATO early this year are to continue in the Baltic Sea. In addition to their ordnance disposal capability, SNMCMG1 Mine Countermeasure Vessels are equipped to carry out underwater scanning for various purposes, which allows them also to inspect and monitor critical underwater infrastructure while at sea. There is still a substantial number of sea mines dating back to the First and Second World Wars on the bottom of the Baltic Sea in Finland's neighbouring areas, although they do not as such pose a risk to sea traffic. - Operations dealing with real historical ordnance in the Baltic Sea provide excellent training opportunities for the SNMCMG1 vessels.&#xa0; At the same time, these joint efforts with NATO helps us control and know sea routes and critical infrastructure better, Deputy Chief of Staff Navy Operations, Captain (N) Marko Laaksonen says. Before activities in the Baltic Sea, SNMCMG1 will visit the port of Turku from 31 October to 3 November 2025. A Finnish Katanpää-class mine countermeasures vessel will operate alongside SNMCMG1. The current flagship of SNMCMG1 is Latvian Navy Ship Virsaitis. Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:12:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/nato-to-conduct-historical-ordnance-disposal-and-inspect-critical-infrastructure-in-gulf-of-finland 2025-10-30T11:12:00Z Finnish Defence Forces to accelerate indigenous AI development with NestAI https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-forces-to-accelerate-indigenous-ai-development-with-nestai – &#xa0;In the Finnish Defence Forces leveraging artificial intelligence and datacentric command and control, information and knowledge management, means that our working procedures and culture will change. We need to be forerunners also in this field, in military national defence. To achieve this objective, we continuously search for the best competence and partners to support us in this development and ensure our capability to react to rapidly changing security threats. Strong cooperation guarantees the necessary competence and competitiveness in this race, points out Chief of Defence, General Janne Jaakkola. <h2>Building capacity by harnessing data, information and knowledge</h2> Changes in Europe’s security environment and the rapid pace of technological development require the FDF to maintain strong responsiveness and resilience in research, development and innovation, as well as in operations. To meet this challenge, the FDF will pilot a new model of cooperative development that brings the organisation to work more closely with industry. This approach enables operational requirements to be incorporated promptly into joint development. The data and AI strategy defines a clear objective. –&#xa0;It involves transitioning to datacentric command and control in which structural data is combined with the practical experience of service personnel. This will support decision-making and make operating increasingly efficient. Alongside information and knowledge management, top technologies and product development capacities will be emphasized. In particular, cooperation with partners will be in a key role since partners sport the necessary competences, says Lieutenant Colonel Jussi Tuovinen from the Defence Command C5 DIV, who has been in primary planning responsibility concerning the strategy. In practice, the data-centric approach means proactive use of data, information and knowledge; enhancement of operational processes; and analytics-supported decision-making. Key tools to improve daily work include, among other things, progressive use of facilitation intelligence and the systematic upskilling of personnel across the FDF. The strategy also seeks to ensure that the FDF’s own product development and AI competencies support resilient development and respond to evolving needs. The public version of the strategy document will be published on the Finnish Defence Forces’ website. <h2>Cooperation with leading companies</h2> The FDF is preparing to establish the FDF AI Agency Centre of Excellence at the start of 2026. The centre will bring together expertise, development capacity and cooperation networks to apply AI to FDF needs. The FDF already collaborates in AI and data processing with a range of companies, research institutes and universities. The new strategy emphasises resilient partnerships that strengthen the FDF’s technological and operational capabilities. Working with leading companies will help the FDF operate more resiliently and efficiently with critical technologies. Launched in 2025, cooperation with NestAI has accelerated the start-up of AI activities within the FDF. NestAI operates across logistics, security and defence, focusing on intelligent unmanned systems as well as command-and-control systems. NestAI is backed by PostScriptum, a founder’s office chaired by&#xa0;Peter Sarlin, whose previous track record includes, among others, Silo AI. –&#xa0;The competitiveness of Finland and Europe in the AI market is essential to ensuring our security. In line with PostScriptum’s mission, NestAI is committed to building next-generation physical AI and strengthening Europe’s defense capabilities in cooperation with the Finnish Defence Forces and other European partners. Our collaboration with the Defence Forces has gotten off to a strong start, and we are pleased to see how even a large organization can adapt quickly when necessary, says Peter Sarlin, Chair of PostScriptum. Thu, 30 Oct 2025 03:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-forces-to-accelerate-indigenous-ai-development-with-nestai 2025-10-30T03:00:00Z The Finnish Defence Forces participated in the NATO exercise Steadfast Duel 25 https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-finnish-defence-forces-participated-in-the-nato-exercise-steadfast-duel-25 – This exercise marks an important step towards strengthening Finland’s defence as part of NATO’s joint defence. The exercise offered us a unique opportunity to test and develop our joint operating capability together with other NATO member nations as concerns readiness and defence plans. This emphasises the significance of NATO’s collective defence and Finland’s commitment to Euro-Atlantic defence, Finnish Defence Forces’ Deputy Chief of Staff Operations, Lieutenant General Kari Nisula says. Steadfast Duel 2025 was the first Article-5 command and control exercise that convened NATO’s three Allied Joint Force Commands (Brunssum, Napoli and Norfolk) and all 32 member nations, including Finland and Sweden. During the exercise, NATO’s readiness and capability for interoperable operating were validated, and regional defence plans and NATO’s operational command and control system were tested under realistic crisis conditions. Wed, 29 Oct 2025 11:13:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-finnish-defence-forces-participated-in-the-nato-exercise-steadfast-duel-25 2025-10-29T11:13:00Z Commander-in-Chief’s physical activity programme received wide visibility and inspired to get moving https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-in-chief-s-physical-activity-programme-received-wide-visibility-and-inspired-to-get-moving The campaign was supported by active communications efforts on the social media, which in turn increased the programme’s impact and visibility. &#xa0; At the time of the campaign start in April, the number of downloads per day of the MarsMars -application were at their second highest ever. It is particularly noteworthy that apart from downloading the application, the new users also recorded their training more frequently than previously – up to 11 per cent more than the year before, and 35 per cent more than over the previous month. The application’s physical activity programme provides a tool for physical preparedness also as concerns the upcoming contingents. The next conscript contingent will start their service on 5 January 2025. &#xa0; The campaign was well recognised among the persons who started their conscript service: in a survey sample from three brigade-level units, every second conscript had noticed the campaign in the media, and altogether 35 per cent of them had given at least a try to the physical activity programme.&#xa0; &#xa0; Based on the results, the users of the physical activity programme were more often of the opinion that their physical fitness had noticeably increased than those who did not follow the programme at all (78 % vs. 54 %). The ones who used the programme also felt that they were physically more prepared for conscript service. &#xa0; Commander-in-Chief’s physical activity programme is available for familiarisation by means of the <a href="https://marsmars.fi/">Marsmars-application</a> that is downloadable free of charge at application stores, and it can also be downloaded on our site <a href="https://intti.fi/ylipaallikon-harjoitusohjelma">https://intti.fi/ylipaallikon-harjoitusohjelma</a>. Materials of the programme remain available also on the social media channels of the Finnish Defence Forces and of the President of the Republic of Finland. Tue, 28 Oct 2025 06:07:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-in-chief-s-physical-activity-programme-received-wide-visibility-and-inspired-to-get-moving 2025-10-28T06:07:00Z Nordic Logistics Schools gathered in Denmark https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/nordic-logistics-schools-gathered-in-denmark The Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command&#xa0;(FDFLOGCOM) is responsible for the procurement of materiel for the Defence Forces and for ensuring the readiness of troops, personnel, and systems. Its core mission is to secure the efficient use of Defence Forces capabilities and the successful execution of operations under all conditions. The Logistics School, subordinate to the FDFLOGCOM&#xa0;Headquarters, provides logistics education and research, produces manuals and guidance materials for logistics and sustainment, and conducts operational and tactical-level research to develop the Defence Forces logistics system. Nordic cooperation in logistics is of key importance to Finland. The Logistics School and the Logistics Command develop capabilities together with partners to ensure that both national and Allied forces receive effective support and expertise in all situations. This objective was further strengthened during the meeting in Denmark, where participants focused on emerging technologies and shared operational models. One of the opening presentations addressed the use of drones. Participating nations shared their experiences on the application of unmanned systems in logistics and discussed future opportunities in this field. Overall, the meeting highlighted a strong sense of mutual understanding and laid a solid foundation for developing common solutions. Looking ahead, the Logistics Command’s goal is to be more comprehensive, responsive, and resilient in the Nordic region. The Command annually supports dozens of international exercises and is responsible for logistics arrangements and services, facility management, catering, health services, and environmental matters. Nordic cooperation reinforces the Command’s core values of cooperation, impact, and responsibility – and embodies its enabling attitude in everything it does. Thu, 23 Oct 2025 10:54:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/nordic-logistics-schools-gathered-in-denmark 2025-10-23T10:54:00Z The visit of the United States Armed Forces Cyber Command to Finland Deepens Bilateral Cooperation https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/visit-of-united-states-armed-forces-cyber-leadership-in-finland-deepens-bilateral-cooperation The visit took place at the Defence Forces C5 Agency, Jyväskylä. The visiting delegation was briefed on Defence Forces cyberspace operations and development of capabilities. The event addressed the current and future activities of the cyber partnership between Finland and the United States. The bilateral cooperation is based on Letter of Intent signed between the nations in 2024 aiming to advance partnership in all areas of cyberspace operations. Bilateral cooperation supports the development of cyber capabilities in alignment with NATO’s capability targets and expanded defense in the Cyberspace domain. Defence Command Chief of C5, Major General Jarmo Vähätiitto considers the visit to be a concrete example of executing the development plan and a step towards deepening the partnership: -&#xa0;The development of the FIN-USA bilateral cyber partnership continues based on established plans. In addition to exercises, it is of the utmost importance to be able to repel real-life cyber threats here and now. Operating together and exchanging information builds the foundation for defending critical systems. I wish to express my thanks to our American colleagues for their visit and commitment to developing our operational cooperation, Major General Vähätiitto said. -&#xa0;The U.S. and Finland together bring complementary expertise to counter sophisticated state-sponsored cyber threat actors. Finland is a critical frontline state in combating malign cyber activities. Its unique understanding of regional cyber threats makes it an invaluable partner for the U.S. Moreover, operational coordination in the cyberspace domain between the U.S. and Finland enhances U.S. homeland defense against cyber threats stemming from global cyber threat actors, Brigadier General Wenthe said. The development of the cyber partnership between Finland and the United States comprises exercises, information exchange, subject matter expert engagements, and cyberspace operations conducted together. Recently cyber experts from the United States Armed Forces assisted Finnish counterparts in identifying threats to enhance cyber protection of systems. The experts also shared best practices and techniques, tactics and procedures in order to further develop interoperability. Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:27:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/visit-of-united-states-armed-forces-cyber-leadership-in-finland-deepens-bilateral-cooperation 2025-10-03T14:27:00Z Multinational project office for armoured vehicle programme established in Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/multinational-project-office-for-armoured-vehicle-programme-established-in-finland Personnel from Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany and Latvia are assigned to the programme office. While they remain administratively part of their respective national organisations, they operate under the authority of the CAVS Programme Director. The office’s mission is to manage the programme as a whole and to ensure the achievement of shared objectives. The programme management office is funded through the European Union’s EDIRPA instrument (European Defence Industry Reinforcement through common Procurement Act), under which the CAVS programme has been awarded EUR 60 million. The funding will also support the implementation of joint contracts as well as the development of new vehicle variants. – The establishment of the programme management office strengthens the collective management of the CAVS programme and marks an important step, as this is the first multinational defence materiel project in which Finland acts as the lead nation, says Brigadier General Engineering Juha-Matti Ylitalo, Chair of the CAVS Programme Steering Committee and Deputy Chief of the Defence Forces Logistics Command. The CAVS programme is a joint 6x6 armoured vehicle development and procurement effort by Finland, Sweden, Latvia, Germany, Denmark, Norway and the United Kingdom, also covering the sustainment phase of the vehicles. The programme is open to new members and is expected to expand further in the future. The programme management is headed by Project Director Liisa Nevalainen from the Joint Systems Centre. &#xa0; <h2>CAVS programme in brief</h2> The CAVS vehicles are supplied by Patria. They are based on a common platform from which several variants have been developed: armoured personnel carrier, command vehicle, heavily armoured personnel carrier for crisis management missions, and a fire support vehicle equipped with the NEMO mortar system. Further variants may be developed to meet the requirements of participating nations. The programme is open to European countries with similar capability needs. Nearly 1,000 CAVS vehicles have been ordered, of which around 200 have already been delivered. Finland has ordered a total of 161 XA-300 armoured personnel carriers, with deliveries scheduled between 2023 and 2026. The procurements are managed by the Joint Systems Centre of the Defence Forces Logistics Command as part of the Army’s Armoured Vehicle 2020 programme. – The programme office enables the effective administration and leadership of the rapidly expanding CAVS programme. The model is new and innovative, and it sets an example of how European joint defence materiel procurements can be carried out with the support of EU EDIRPA funding. It also allows us to combine the expertise of all CAVS nations for the benefit of the programme as a whole, summarises Nevalainen, who will take over as Head of the programme management office on 1 November. <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/equipment/-/cat/asset/view/id/1702" target="_blank">XA-300 Armoured Personnel Carrier in FDFs Materiel and Equipment Gallery (link)</a> &#xa0; Wed, 01 Oct 2025 06:20:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/multinational-project-office-for-armoured-vehicle-programme-established-in-finland 2025-10-01T06:20:00Z Annual meeting of Nordic Chiefs of Defence Staffs in Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/annual-meeting-of-nordic-chiefs-of-defence-staffs-in-finland The official programme included a visit in Karelia Brigade, a &#xa0;presentation of special operations forces activities at Utti Jaeger Regiment and presentation of the activities of the South-East Finland Border Guard District in Vaalimaa.&#xa0; Chief of Defence Command Finland, Lieutenant General Vesa Virtanen who hosted the visit, extended warm thanks to his colleagues:&#xa0; – The military cooperation between the Nordic countries builds upon long, shared history and trust the significance of which is emphasised not only in the current security situation, but also in preparations for the future. &#xa0;The cooperation works, because we share the same values, goals and practical experiences of strengthening common defence. &#xa0; Wed, 17 Sep 2025 12:09:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/annual-meeting-of-nordic-chiefs-of-defence-staffs-in-finland 2025-09-17T12:09:00Z Chief of the United States National Guard Bureau Visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/chief-of-the-united-states-national-guard-bureau-visited-finland-1 Chief of the Defence Command, Lieutenant General Vesa Virtanen emphasizes that the visit highlighted the cooperation between our countries and the importance of dialogue. – It is significant that the Chief of the United States National Guard Bureau visits Finland in the current security situation. &#xa0;The visit offered an opportunity for in-depth conversations on current issues and opportunity for further deepening our cooperation. &#xa0;At the same time, it is important that we can offer our important ally an insight into the Finnish defence system and into our national defence principles, Lieutenant General Virtanen says. The National Guard Bureau (NGB) is a federal agency responsible for the administration of the National Guard and the use of its resources. &#xa0; The task of the National Guard Bureau is to ensure that the personnel of the Army and Air National Guards are trained, equipped and ready to protect the U.S homeland, to assist civilian authorities and to be deployed to international duties. The Chief of the National Guard Bureau is an &#xa0;advisor to the President of the United States, the Secretary of War and other leadership in matters pertaining to the National Guard. General Steven S. Nordhaus is the 30th Chief of the United States National Guard Bureau and he is also a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In addition to his advisory role, General Nordhaus is also the Department of War’s official channel of communication to the Governors and State Adjutants General on all matters pertaining to the National Guard. He is responsible for ensuring the more than 433,000 Army and Air National Guard personnel are accessible, capable and ready to protect the U.S. homeland and provide combat ready resources to the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force. &#xa0; Tue, 16 Sep 2025 11:57:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/chief-of-the-united-states-national-guard-bureau-visited-finland-1 2025-09-16T11:57:00Z Security in the Arctic Region among topics of discussions - Chief of the Defence Command attended the Northern Group’s vice chiefs of defence meeting in Greenland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/security-in-the-arctic-region-among-topics-of-discussions-chief-of-the-defence-command-attended-the-northern-group-s-vice-chiefs-of-defence-meeting-in-greenland The conference brought together military leaders from the armed forces of Northern European countries to discuss preparedness, enhancement of cooperation and the security situation in the Arctic Region and the Baltic Sea.&#xa0; The conference was hosted by Denmark. The actual organisation was handled by the Joint Arctic Command (JACO), which is responsible for the military defence of Greenland and the Faroe Islands and for surveillance in the Arctic Region. The topics of discussions centred around the special features of the Arctic operating environment and the countries’ collective preparedness in the changing conditions. Security in the Northern European area was also emphasised, since stability in the Northern areas is necessary for security in the whole of Europe. Lieutenant General Virtanen stressed the importance of cooperation: – Close cooperation with the Northern Group countries is very important to us. Our multinational exercises, information exchange and ability to work together strengthen stability and security both in the Arctic Region and in the Baltic Sea. The conference was an opportunity to bring up Finnish expertise in operating in an Arctic environment, to strengthen cooperation with our close allies and to elaborate on the common situation picture of security in the Arctic Region.&#xa0; The Northern Group is a forum which deals with security and defence in Northern Europe. The Group consists of the Nordic and the Baltic countries, Poland, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. The Northern Group’s vice chiefs of defence meet annually to discuss topical issues. The Finnish Defence Forces’ representative in the forum is Chief of the Defence Command. Fri, 12 Sep 2025 12:25:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/security-in-the-arctic-region-among-topics-of-discussions-chief-of-the-defence-command-attended-the-northern-group-s-vice-chiefs-of-defence-meeting-in-greenland 2025-09-12T12:25:00Z Mental health issues are among the most common reasons for interrupting military service https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/mental-health-issues-are-among-the-most-common-reasons-for-interrupting-military-service Of the conscripts in January 2025 contingent (1/25), 16.1% interrupted their service after the training phases which is exactly the same percentage as the previous year. In most cases, the service was interrupted due to category E fitness for service. With the January contingent, category E was the reason for interruption for 9.8% of all conscripts, which is slightly higher (0.6%) than with the January contingent in the previous year. The total percentage of conscripts dropping out in July contingents has reduced, if we look at the long-term development. The total share of conscripts dropping out in July 2024 contingent was 14.9%, which is the lowest figure since 2017. This year, the most common reason for interruptions in the July contingent was category E fitness for service, which was determined for 4.8% of the conscripts by the end of the basic training phase. 2.3% interrupted their service due to their wish to do non-military service instead, and 1.6% due to being categorised to category C fitness for service. Mental health issues and challenges in adjustment more acute than ever A person categorised to category E fitness for service has an illness, an injury, a defect or a physical debility which makes them unfit for service for a period of 1–3 years. In the past few years, the number of conscripts in category E has been growing. According to Major Jyrki Kalliola from the Defence Command Training Division, problems related to mental health, coping, well-being and adjustment as well as substance use are more acute than ever: – The fact that young people have more mental health issues than before is apparent also in the military service. Adjustment to a new daily routine and group work may also be challenging. Major Kalliola says that the Defence Forces is monitoring the situation, taking action on the basis of observations made about the interruptions: – We are following the situation and the reasons for interruption closely. This helps us see trends and improve service conditions. Most interruptions take place during the first two weeks of service, and we are taking various measures to facilitate recruits’ adjustment to their new environment. These include specific attention to appropriate treatment of conscripts and to conscript leaders’ leadership skills.&#xa0; One example of practical measures is the peer support activity, which was piloted in the Air Force Academy and Kainuu Brigade, and the related peer support training. The peer support from conscripts specifically trained for the task is an easily accessible form of support, and an addition to the professional help provided by social welfare officers, military chaplains and health care personnel. This matter cannot, however, be dealt with by the Defence Forces alone. – We are constantly working on new ways to support and improve our conscripts’ well-being. However, the interruptions reflect societal phenomena that extend beyond the Defence Forces, such as polarisation of the population’s abilities, increasing differentiation of values, and individualism, which can be solved only by cooperation of different societal actors, Major Kalliola says. Fri, 12 Sep 2025 06:06:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/mental-health-issues-are-among-the-most-common-reasons-for-interrupting-military-service 2025-09-12T06:06:00Z Alliance logistics developed during ATCIC25 exercise https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/alliance-logistics-developed-during-atcic25-exercise The exercise, organised at the Logistics School in Riihimäki, brought together 50 participants from the armed forces of 13 NATO member nations as well as NATO organisations. The aim of the exercise was to test digital logistics solutions designed to improve and develop Alliance operations, the provision of logistics support to forces, and cross-border military mobility. Key themes included the enhancement of material and delivery tracking, the production of components using additive manufacturing (3D printing) methods, the secure sharing of printing models among different actors, as well as the development of a digital solution for implementing customs declaration procedures for cross-border transport. Tue, 09 Sep 2025 10:25:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/alliance-logistics-developed-during-atcic25-exercise 2025-09-09T10:25:00Z Finnish Defence Forces to procure satellites from ICEYE https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-forces-to-procure-satellites-from-iceye On 5 September the Minister of Defence authorised the Finnish Defence Forces to order a SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) satellite system from the Finnish ICEYE Oy. The procurement contract was signed by Brigadier General Engineering Juha-Matti Ylitalo, Deputy Chief of Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command and Seppo Aaltonen, VP Nordics &amp; NATO at ICEYE, in Tampere on 8 September 2025. The procurement is based on the letter of intent signed by the Ministry of Defence and ICEYE in June this year. It includes the satellites and all related technology and equipment, which will enhance the Defence Forces’ independent surveillance capability in space.&#xa0; ICEYE’s satellites can provide images and monitor locations in any weather, day and night. The data produced by the satellites can be used for the needs of other authorities as well. The total value of the procurement, excluding VAT, is approximately EUR 158 million. The procurement includes options which will enable extension of the satellites’ life cycle and expansion of the system. The effect of the procurement on employment in Finland is approximately 36 person-years. &#xa0; Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:02:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-forces-to-procure-satellites-from-iceye 2025-09-08T10:02:00Z Agreement on the procurement of TNT explosives from Forcit https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/agreement-on-the-procurement-of-tnt-explosives-from-forcit The procurement agreement was signed in Tampere by Major General Tero Ylitalo, Director of the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command, and Joakim Westerlund, CEO of Forcit. Under the agreement, the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command will purchase TNT explosives from Forcit for the needs of the Finnish Defence Forces in 2028–37. The total value of the agreement, excluding VAT, is EUR 189 million. The explosive will be supplied by Forcit Pori Oy, a member of the Forcit Group, and a new production facility will be built in Pori for this purpose. The opening of the new production facility is part of efforts to up increase Finland’s ammunition production, which will ensure sufficient domestic TNT supply for the needs of the Finnish Defense Forces and also enable support for allies. TNT, or trotyl, is used as an explosive in many field artillery and mortar shells, among other things. In Finland, ammunition for the Finnish Defense Forces is manufactured in cooperation between domestic industry and the Explosives Center of the Finnish Defense Forces Logistics Command. In the grenade manufacturing process, domestic industry is responsible for the production of explosives, as well as the casting and painting of metal shells and the manufacture of other components. The Explosives Center is responsible for loading and packaging the shells, as well as conducting test firings to ensure the safety and proper functioning of the ammunition batches. Thu, 04 Sep 2025 09:40:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/agreement-on-the-procurement-of-tnt-explosives-from-forcit 2025-09-04T09:40:00Z Construction of the third Pohjanmaa-class multi-purpose corvette began at the Rauma shipyard https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/construction-of-the-third-pohjanmaa-class-multi-purpose-corvette-began-at-the-rauma-shipyard The steel cutting ceremony marked the start of the ship's hull construction with the ceremonial cutting of the first steel plates. The event was attended by personnel from the Navy, the Finnish Defense Forces Logistics Command, and Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) the builder of the ship, as well as representatives of other stakeholders. The Pohjanmaa-class project involves the construction of four ice-going multi-purpose corvettes for the Finnish Navy, which will be completed by 2029. The ships will be commissioned in stages between 2027 and 2029. Production of the first ship began in October 2023, and it was launched in May this year. The ship is currently being fitted out and its systems are being installed. Steel cutting for the second ship began in October 2024, and the hull is currently in the assembly phase. <div> READ MORE: <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/equipment/-/cat/asset/view/id/326" target="_blank">Pohjanmaa class on the Material and Equipment of the Finnish Defence Forces website</a> <figure class="image"> <figcaption> The first Pohjanmaa-class multi-role corvette at the equipment pier in Rauma. </figcaption> </figure> &#xa0; </div> Tue, 26 Aug 2025 11:01:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/construction-of-the-third-pohjanmaa-class-multi-purpose-corvette-began-at-the-rauma-shipyard 2025-08-26T11:01:00Z Visit of United States Armed Forces logistics leadership in Finland strengthenes interoperability https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/visit-of-united-states-armed-forces-logistics-leadership-in-finland-strengthenes-interoperability The visit deepened the bilateral defence cooperation between Finland and the United States by strengthening logistics interoperability. Finnish experts presented the special features of Finland’s logistics system from the northern circumstances perspective to the Americans. During the visit, the Americans familiarized themselves with the northern Area of Operations and Finnish winter equipment.&#xa0; The Defence Cooperation Agreement between Finland and the United States, DCA, which entered into force last year, provides a framework for the presence and training of U.S. forces in Finland. The visit familiarized the Americans also with the areas and assets on which the cooperation between Finland and the United States mainly focuses according to the agreement. The Defence Forces Deputy Chief of Staff Logistics and Armaments, Lieutenant General Jari Mikkonen considers the visit to be a concrete step in the strengthening of logistics interoperability and as a part of the implementation of the DCA in practise.&#xa0; – The defence cooperation between Finland and the United States keeps deepening constantly also in the field of logistics. Logistics has to be fluent and compatible, otherwise the big picture won’t work. The northern circumstances, the cold and long winters, for example, pose their special requirements on know-how and solutions. During the visit, we also examined the areas and facilities in joint use as specified in the DCA. Having thorough knowledge of them is essential from the point of view of the fluency of even ordinary, everyday cooperation. I wish to express my thanks to our American colleagues for their interest and commitment to developing our cooperation, Lieutenant General Mikkonen said.&#xa0; – Increased interoperability through collaborative logistics planning and execution is crucial for effective combined operations in the High North. Our partnership with Finland will allow us to seamlessly integrate our logistics capabilities, enhancing our readiness and ability to respond to a wide range of contingencies together, stated&#xa0;Vice Admiral Dion D. English, Director for Logistics (J-4) of the Joint Staff. Coordination of logistics activities is bilateral; at the moment, a unit from Karelia Brigade is currently participating in an exercise in the United States under desert conditions, where logistics and support in challenging environments are a central part of the unit’s operations. At the same time, American military personnel are training Finnish soldiers in Karelia Brigade to use and maintain American equipment.&#xa0; During the second half of the year, the United States will take extensively part in military presence and training activities in Finland and the Baltic Sea region. Read more in our press release published <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/-/yhdysvaltojen-lasnaolo-vahvistuu-loppuvuodeksi-aktiivista-harjoitustoimintaa-suomessa-ja-itameren-alueella?languageId=en_US">on 5 August 2025</a>. Mon, 11 Aug 2025 12:15:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/visit-of-united-states-armed-forces-logistics-leadership-in-finland-strengthenes-interoperability 2025-08-11T12:15:00Z Finland's and Sweden's cybersecurity capabilities were tested in the USA's Cyber Flag exercise https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-s-and-sweden-s-cybersecurity-capabilities-were-tested-in-the-usa-s-cyber-flag-exercise In addition to the USA's cybersecurity team, cyber specialists from over 20 countries around the world gathered to practice and share best practices for cyber protection. This year, experts from the defense forces of Finland and Sweden also participated in the exercise with a joint team. USCYBERCOM enabled the exercise by utilizing a simulated environment created within the Persistent Cyber Training Environment (PCTE), where real cyber threats are described. “In this environment, observation, isolation, and elimination of simulated threat actors can be practiced in a safe manner,” summarizes the exercise's national senior, Captain (eng.) Petteri Hanhimäki. "The United States has invited many countries to participate in the exercise besides its own troops, and it is a fantastic opportunity to see how other teams also handle the setup of the exercise," adds Hanhimäki. The exercise lasted a month, where Finns and Swedes participated in the first two-week part during the holiday season. This year, the task of the cyber protection teams was to protect operational and information systems environments designed for the scenario. "The exercise once again provided good experiences and observations from the previous exercise could be utilized. The collaboration of the Finns and Swedes as a joint team was frictionless, but new areas for development were identified by both the team and the evaluation group," says Hanhimäki. Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:23:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-s-and-sweden-s-cybersecurity-capabilities-were-tested-in-the-usa-s-cyber-flag-exercise 2025-08-11T11:23:00Z Presence of the United States will strengthen in the second half of the year – active training in Finland and the Baltic Sea region https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/presence-of-the-united-states-will-strengthen-in-the-second-half-of-the-year-active-training-in-finland-and-the-baltic-sea-region The United States’ military presence and training in various parts of Finland and the Baltic Sea region is included in existing plans and a part of the bilateral defence cooperation between Finland and the United States.&#xa0; The goal is to develop readiness, strengthen interoperability and promote regional security. National defence and international cooperation complement each other, and they are both part of Finland’s defence solution.&#xa0; The importance of cooperation is underscored in the current, unstable global situation where changes, rapid as they may be, could take place. –&#xa0;In the future as well, we will keep up our own ability to defend our country and be responsible for Finland’s military defence. Finland cannot, however, stand alone and isolate itself. In the current security environment, cooperation is indispensable, says Deputy Chief of Staff Strategy, Major General Sami Nurmi.&#xa0; According to Major General Nurmi, the presence of the United States is a demonstration of deepening cooperation and of the United States’ commitment to Finland and the Baltic Sea region: – The defence cooperation between Finland and the United States bases on a long-lasting partnership.&#xa0; It also supports multilateral and NATO cooperation.&#xa0; The presence of the United States is not a one-time exception, but a part of our nations’ continuing and deepening partnership and alliance. It is a demonstration of commitment to collective defence and the security of Finland and the Baltic Sea region. The strengthening presence and training activity were launched in mid-July, when the first U.S. Marine Corps detachment arrived in Finland.&#xa0;The units deployed in Uusimaa Brigade and the Coastal Brigade will operate in Finland for about a month. Karelia Brigade has also received American soldiers. They will provide training for Finnish military personnel to operate and maintain US equipment. The additional activities with US troops are scheduled across&#xa0;Finland during the second half of the year. Information about the following phases and exercises will be provided later. <h2 style="margin-top: 8px; margin-bottom: 8px;">Exercise activities test and develop interoperability</h2> The defence cooperation will become concrete in exercises in which interoperability between Finland and the United States will be practised and developed. Compatible procedures and capabilities enable the planning and implementation of collective defence efficiently in all situations. The exercise entity in the latter part of 2025 will be extensive and cover the Army, Navy and the Air Force.&#xa0; The Defence Cooperation Agreement, DCA, between Finland and the United States allows the presence and training of American troops in Finland. The agreement which entered into force last year is now applied in practice. The bilateral activities are in accordance with the agreement and take place as mutually agreed.&#xa0;&#xa0; From time to time, personnel deployed and participating in exercises will also move outside the garrisons and training areas. – You may come across American troops and equipment across Finland. They are welcome. We may not be famous for great small talk skills, but nodding or smiling is good enough, if you see troops in the street, Major General Nurmi suggests. Wed, 06 Aug 2025 05:12:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/presence-of-the-united-states-will-strengthen-in-the-second-half-of-the-year-active-training-in-finland-and-the-baltic-sea-region 2025-08-06T05:12:00Z Finnish Defence Force's MILjazz tour is continuing – among the artists representatives from allied countries https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-force-s-miljazz-tour-is-continuing-among-the-artists-representatives-from-allied-countries-1 The MILjazz tour has two parts. The first eight stops of the tour happened in June. The second part of the tour, which takes place in August, is in northern Finland. In the last part of the tour, there are shows in Rovaniemi (2.8), Oulu (4.8), and Kokkola (6.8). This year, the MILjazz tour is going to feature an exceptionally large amount of international military music from allied countries. In the first part of the tour, Germany's armed forces' Big Band Der Bundeswehr performed in three locations. In August, NATO's official military orchestra, the NATO Jazz Orchestra, will also be joining the Armed Forces' MILjazz tour. According to the The Chief Conductor of the Finnish Defence Forces, Commander (Mus.) Timo Kotilainen, international cooperation helps develop military music: “Such activities increase knowledge in multicultural environments and provide useful information about the working methods and programmes of allied countries' military bands. At the same time, it keeps the discussion about the role of military music in a changing world alive.” The NATO Jazz Orchestra is part of the SHAPE International Band which operates under NATO's European Command. The SHAPE International Band has been the official musical representative for NATO's Commander in Europe (Supreme Allied Commander Europe, SACEUR) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) since 1983. The NATO Jazz Orchestra, focusing on jazz, mainly consists of American musicians and has 15 to 18 members. The band is arriving in Finland from its base in Mons, Belgium, and is set to perform at the Defence Forces' MILjazz tour on 4th August in the square in Oulu. &#xa0; The place info for the MILjazz tour is in the concert calendar: <a href="https://konserttikalenteri.puolustusvoimat.fi">https://konserttikalenteri.puolustusvoimat.fi</a> Fri, 01 Aug 2025 09:53:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-defence-force-s-miljazz-tour-is-continuing-among-the-artists-representatives-from-allied-countries-1 2025-08-01T09:53:00Z Amendment to Territorial Surveillance Act specifies restrictions on aerial photography https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/amendment-to-territorial-surveillance-act-specifies-restrictions-on-aerial-photography By law, a permit is required to photograph or otherwise gather information from the air within Finnish territory in the following areas: <ul> <li><a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/documents/1948673/0/PV%20ohje%20luvan%20hakemisesta%20R-alueelle_25_en.pdf/3356caa8-d5cc-9999-3bf9-cb85645783cc/PV%20ohje%20luvan%20hakemisesta%20R-alueelle_25_en.pdf?t=1742552580590">areas that are permanently restricted to aerial traffic</a> (EFR11, 12, 35, 37, 43, 45, 54, 100, 123, 124, 125, 126, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 136, 138, 140 and 141)</li> <li>fortifications, forts and areas used by the Finnish Defence Forces and the Border Guard.</li> <li>military ports or military air bases (also temporary military areas, for example those established for an exercise or visits of foreign navy vessels)</li> <li>the FDF depots or storages</li> <li>the FDF signal stations, antenna sites and other defence equipment or materiel</li> <li>the FDF or Border Guard exercises (including exercises at sea)</li> </ul> The most notable change concerns photographing or information gathering of foreign armed forces in the Finnish territory. This means, for example, that photographing of foreign forces, vehicles or vessels participating in international exercises in the Finnish territory is not allowed without appropriate authorization. The FDF is the legitimate authority processing applications for aerial photography permits. The permit procedure itself has not changed; rather, the amendment makes restrictions in certain areas and in certain aspects more specific. More information about restrictions on aerial photography and the permit application process can be found <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/instructions-for-aerial-photographers">here</a>. Tue, 22 Jul 2025 12:23:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/amendment-to-territorial-surveillance-act-specifies-restrictions-on-aerial-photography 2025-07-22T12:23:00Z Chief of Defence Command Finland visited the United Kingdom - smooth cooperation strengthens the Alliance, creating stability in the Baltic Sea https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/chief-of-defence-command-finland-visited-the-united-kingdom-smooth-cooperation-strengthens-the-alliance-creating-stability-in-the-baltic-sea The meeting involved discussions about the present security situation, development of the armed forces, supporting Ukraine and bilateral and multilateral cooperation of the two countries, for example within NATO and in the context of Joint Expeditionary Forces. Lieutenant General Virtanen also visited the UK Permanent Joint Headquarters and the Allied Maritime Command MARCOM, meeting Finnish staff serving there. - The United Kingdom is our long-time partner and an important Ally. &#xa0;Defence cooperation between our countries is active, and it is being deepened in various ways. I would like to thank my colleague, General Nesmith, for our open discussions and for fostering our shared interests now and in the future. The UK’s commitment to NATO’s defence plans and the Forward Land Forces to be established in Finland is very important to Finland. The Finnish and Allied troops that we met showed the importance of seamless military cooperation, convincing us of the significant role that the Alliance plays in the national defence of Finland. It was great to see how well the Finnish soldiers have integrated into NATO’s and the Allied countries’ military structures”, Lieutenant General Virtanen says. &#xa0; Lieutenant General Virtanen also gave a speech about the Finnish comprehensive national defence model in the Royal United Services Institute. The purpose of bilateral and multilateral military cooperation is to strengthen national defence and enhance the Allied countries’ readiness to respond to potential security threats in our neighbouring areas. Fri, 18 Jul 2025 10:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/chief-of-defence-command-finland-visited-the-united-kingdom-smooth-cooperation-strengthens-the-alliance-creating-stability-in-the-baltic-sea 2025-07-18T10:00:00Z Psychological test used in selection of conscript leaders revised to meet present-day requirements https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/psychological-test-used-in-selection-of-conscript-leaders-revised-to-meet-present-day-requirements The P2 test is a standardized method used in psychological testing of conscripts. The final score of the test can be used as an indicator of the conscript’s ability to carry out leadership duties or demanding rank and file duties. The revised test has 322 questions which aim at exploring, for example, personality traits, interpersonal skills and behavioural patterns. The need for revision arose from the new, more comprehensive understanding of leadership and the requirements set by present-day battlefield. The old P2 test was designed to identify “old-school” leader types. In the past, leadership in conscript service was more focused on authority and issuing orders, whereas today, it is more about being able to motivate people and leading by example. Moreover, modern warfare and technological developments have changed the requirements for conscripts’ tasks and duties. The new test has been designed to assess precisely those qualities that are needed in the present-day conscript duties, leadership and rank and file alike. The ultimate goal of the revision was to improve identification of those with leadership potential and also to find the most suitable tasks and duties for all other conscripts. Finding suitable tasks for conscripts adds to service motivation, in addition to which the information collected by the new test supports the Defence Forces’ capability and readiness in the changing security environment. - Modern warfare requires different types of leaders, and the new test recognises this diversity better than the old one. The information we get from the revised P2 test allows us to benefit from the diversity of the leadership potential that we have, and what’s more, we are now able to assess conscripts’ suitability for other than leadership duties as well, says Research Manager Petteri Simola from the Human Performance Division of the FDF Defence Research Agency. <h2>Thorough revision based on requirements for conscript duties</h2> The revised P2 test is based on several years of research and development. Before the actual test was revised, researchers need to review and map the qualities that the test is meant to assess. These qualities were determined on the basis of studies and surveys carried out by the Defence Forces.&#xa0; The revised test assesses, among other things, a person's behaviour under pressure, decision-making, ability to lead people, cooperation skills and action in different scenarios as well as qualities related to these. According to observations, the revised test also helps identify those with a higher risk of discontinuing their service. Wed, 16 Jul 2025 11:03:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/psychological-test-used-in-selection-of-conscript-leaders-revised-to-meet-present-day-requirements 2025-07-16T11:03:00Z Chiefs of the Defence Staffs of Finland and Estonia met in Estonia https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/chiefs-of-the-defence-staffs-of-finland-and-estonia-met-in-estonia The Chiefs of Staffs of Finland and Estonia meet annually. This year’s meeting included discussions on the security environment and on bilateral and multilateral defence cooperation of the two countries. Support for Ukraine was also on the agenda. According to Lieutenant General Vesa Virtanen, defence cooperation between the Finnish and Estonian Defence Forces is active across all services. “We had fruitful discussions and agreed on the next concrete steps. The Gulf of Finland is a key area for both our countries, and its defence requires deep cooperation. Together we are stronger. I thank my colleague, Major General Karus, for the open dialogue and the advancement of our cooperation.” “The Estonian and allied troops serving in Estonia made a strong impression with their positive attitude and professionalism. It was enlightening to learn more about the activities of Estonian and allied forces in our neighbouring region,” Lieutenant General Virtanen says. The Chief of Staff of the Estonian Joint Headquarters, Major General Vahur Karus, says that “military defence cooperation between Estonia and Finland is important for both nations and supports each country’s national defence.” “Finland’s membership in the alliance enables seamless development of cooperation based on our shared needs. I greatly value the friendship between me and my Finnish counterpart.” In addition to discussions at the Estonian Joint Headquarters, the generals visited Ämäri Air Base and were introduced to Estonia’s defence system, new weapons systems, and NATO’s air surveillance arrangements. The purpose of the bilateral cooperation between Finland and Estonia is to strengthen defence and enhance allied readiness to respond to potential security threats in the region. Fri, 11 Jul 2025 06:37:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/chiefs-of-the-defence-staffs-of-finland-and-estonia-met-in-estonia 2025-07-11T06:37:00Z New Recruits Begin Their Military Service https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/new-recruits-begin-their-military-service In the call-up every recruit has been assigned a time and place for starting military service. The actual duties they will be trained for will be determined during military service. Military service will begin with a six-week basic training phase that is common for all recruits: during this phase they will learn the basics of soldiering. During the basic training phase, the recruits will be assigned their training branches that will determine their advanced training. Depending on the training, military service lasts 165, 255 or 347 days. There are hundreds of different duties and tasks to choose from. The goal is to find a rewarding task or role for as many as possible. One that is rewarding and that corresponds to the individual’s skills and supports their future ambitions. You can read about the most common tasks <a href="https://intti.fi/en/service-titles">here</a>. Future recruit: Would you like to apply your special skills while gaining valuable job experience? The application period for rank-and-file specialist duties begins 7 July! The available duties and roles include tasks in the following fields: information technology, intelligence, research, public affairs and media, and the chaplaincy. <h2 style="margin-top:8px; margin-bottom:8px">Smaller detachments to avoid respiratory infections</h2> Infectious diseases spread easily in garrisons with many people in tight spaces. During the past year there have been adenovirus epidemics in garrisons. Despite the low infection rates over the summer in Finland, the recruits of contingent 2/25 will be divided into smaller detachments for the first three weeks of service in order to reduce the number of infections, to limit the spread of respiratory infections and to insure in-service and health safety. The different recruit detachments will not interact with each other. Medical face masks will be worn in common areas. Otherwise conscript training will continue as normal and the detachment arrangements have no impact on such things as weekend leave. Every brigade-level unit decides independently on how family day is organized. At the start of their service, the recruits will get more information and instructions on how to prevent respiratory infections in their own brigade-level unit. Further information about general preventive measures is available <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/-/syksyn-hengitystieinfektiotilanne-puolustusvoimissa">here</a>&#xa0;(in Finnish or Swedish). The Finnish Defence Forces is prepared for the situation and possible developments. We are closely monitoring the number of infections in garrisons. <h2>Military service also affects loved ones</h2> Military service also has an impact on the families and friends of the conscripts. For many, this is a new and exciting phase that evokes many new thoughts in both those starting their military service as well as in their loved ones. The support and encouragement of loved ones is important for conscripts all throughout their service. You can follow the phases of military service and participate in the experience in many ways. Families and friends are welcome to the family days and to the military oath and affirmation events, the dates of which will be published later. You can follow the everyday life of conscript service <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/asiointi/kanavat/some-kanavat">on our social media</a>. In addition to the natural nervousness caused by the new phase in one’s live, the weakened international security situation may also cause concern among the conscripts and their families. Currently there is no immediate military threat directed against Finland. We are monitoring the military operating environment at all times and regulating our readiness in all situations as necessary. In regards to our conscripts, we will make sure they will receive training that is current and up-to-date. Our job is to ensure safe military service that supports the individual’s future development. <h2>MyMilitary Portal</h2> The MyMilitary Portal will guide a future recruit forward. By logging onto the MyMilitary Portal you will get instructions regarding reporting for service and you can answer the recruit questionnaire&#xa0; and online version of aptitude test 2 if you have not done so already.&#xa0; Filling in the questionnaire and completing the aptitude test will give you an opportunity to impact what task or role you will be assigned. You can find the MyMilitary Portal <a href="http://omaintti.fi/en">here</a>.&#xa0; <h3>Useful links</h3> You can read up on what things you need to organize in your civilian life in order to prepare for military service <a href="https://intti.fi/en/preparing-for-the-service">here</a>. What to expect from conscript service? Read more about conscript service <a href="https://intti.fi/en/in-service">here</a>. Regional offices will answer questions by those liable for military service. Read the answers to our frequently asked questions <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/regional-offices/faq">here</a>. Mon, 30 Jun 2025 08:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/new-recruits-begin-their-military-service 2025-06-30T08:00:00Z Explosives Centre supported test firings of domestic mobile artillery system https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/explosives-centre-supported-test-firings-of-domestic-mobile-artillery-system The new system, under the project name Patria ARVE, is based on the 155 K 98 field gun, which has been integrated onto a Sisu all-terrain truck chassis. During the successful test firings at the Explosives Centre’s range, dozens of rounds were fired at various elevation and traverse angles, including direct fire scenarios. The Explosives Centre participated in the planning and execution of the firings, and was responsible for measurement and documentation activities together with Patria. The aim of the testing and evaluation activities carried out by the Explosives Centre is to ensure that new ammunition and weapon systems are safe for the user and function as intended. In addition to supporting the development of the Defence Forces’ own materiel, these services are also offered on a commercial basis to the domestic defence industry. The Explosives Centre is also responsible for the production, maintenance and disposal of explosive ordnance used by the Finnish Defence Forces. Thu, 26 Jun 2025 07:43:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/explosives-centre-supported-test-firings-of-domestic-mobile-artillery-system 2025-06-26T07:43:00Z Research bulletin on Multi-Domain Operations https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/research-bulletin-on-multi-domain-operations MDO aim to address the challenges of modern conflict and warfare, ranging from competition to rapid surprise operations and full-scale armed conflicts. The goal of MDO is to gain advantage over peer adversaries by integrating operations and actions simultaneously across multiple domains, targeting key enemy capabilities, and executing operations faster than the adversary. The converging effects produced by MDO are intended to paralyze the adversary’s ability to act effectively and enable the achievement of one’s own objectives. This research bulletin examines the principles and solutions presented by NATO and selected NATO members’ Multi-domain operations (MDO) concepts and identifies opportunities and preliminary options for developing Finnish MDO principles. 2025:9 <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/documents/1951253/2815786/2025-10%20Principles%20of%20Multi-Domain%20Operations.pdf/ed95294a-a776-7dd7-af34-642a75b866af/2025-10%20Principles%20of%20Multi-Domain%20Operations.pdf?" target="_blank">Principles of Multi-Domain Operations</a> <h2>Additional information</h2> Lieutenant Colonel (OF-4), Doctor of Military Sciences, Janne Tähtinen. He serves as Deputy Chief of Division / Chief Scientist at the Concept and Doctrine Division. <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/web/tutkimus/fdra-publications" target="_blank">Previous research bulletins can be found here.</a> Thu, 12 Jun 2025 09:44:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/research-bulletin-on-multi-domain-operations 2025-06-12T09:44:00Z Commander of the United States Special Operations Command visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-the-united-states-special-operations-command-visited-finland-1 The visit included discussions on current themes related to the security environment, particularly concerning Finland’s regional stability and military cooperation. The discussions emphasized operational planning, bilateral defense cooperation between Finland and the United States, Finland’s NATO integration, and the Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA), which provides a framework for allied presence and cooperation in Finland. The main discussions took place at the Coastal Brigade. <figure class="image"> <figcaption> General Fenton (on the right) is having a conversation with a conscript in the Coastal Brigade. </figcaption> </figure> During the visit, Finland’s special operations capabilities and development directions were presented as part of broader efforts to strengthen interoperability. Finland’s special operations activities are centralized in the Utti Jaeger Regiment, a high-readiness unit. The regiment actively participates in international exercises, which enhances interoperability with partners and allies. The importance of rapidly deployable and flexible capabilities has become increasingly emphasized in modern defense. In this context, discussions with the USSOCOM Commander provided a natural opportunity to address both special operations and broader operational cooperation and interoperability among allies. The visit supports interoperability in all possible conditions and at all levels, with a focus on compatibility, readiness, and proactive cooperation. <figure class="image"> <figcaption> General Fenton (on the right) also met with the Chief of Defence, General Janne Jaakkola (on the left). </figcaption> </figure> USSOCOM commands U.S. Special Operations Forces. In addition to direct military actions, its core tasks include intelligence, internal defense, support operations, humanitarian assistance, and efforts against terrorism and weapons of mass destruction. USSOCOM’s headquarters is located in Tampa, Florida. Mon, 09 Jun 2025 18:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-the-united-states-special-operations-command-visited-finland-1 2025-06-09T18:00:00Z Speech by the Reviewing Officer of the Finnish Defence Forces Flag Day Parade, 4 June 2025 https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/speech-by-the-reviewing-officer-of-the-finnish-defence-forces-flag-day-parade-4-june-2025 Distinguished veterans of our wars and members of the Lotta Svärd organisation, distinguished guests, citizens and parade troops, The theme of this year’s parade, “Nordic Security – 100 Years of Air Defence”, contains three major subtopics. Firstly, the significance of air defence; secondly, our long and successful tradition of cooperation between ground-based air defence and air power; and, thirdly, the North’s geopolitical significance and Nordic cooperation. I will begin with the significance of air defence. A wide-scale war is raging in Ukraine for the fourth year. Cruise missiles, tens of thousands of glide bombs, and drones are an everyday occurrence also further away from the frontlines. Despite the ruthless use of force taking place for years, Russia has not managed to destroy Ukraine’s air defence which protects the society to the best of its ability every single day. In addition to these actions, warning the civilians and minimizing the impact of strikes remains important, because it is impossible to repel every threat. In the midst of war, the society sustains its functions while adapting to the circumstances. Today, air superiority and security for the own troops and society can be achieved only by air defence that is efficiently coordinated and consists of various systems. As Finns, we understand this well. The strength of our air defence is in cooperation – our super force is operating together. It is also the super force of the entire Finland. Comprehensive national defence is a concept established in Finland and our will to defend the country is unequalled in the world. Amongst both the young and the old. We carry a long tradition of coordinating defensive counterair operations with ground-based air defence operations. Air defence has been and will be developed on a long-term basis. Currently, the most essential goals include the introduction into service of the F–35 multirole fighter and David’s Sling air and missile defence system alongside the counterair capability of unmanned systems. Both the F–35 and David’s Sling provide the best possible combat capability for the Finnish setting. Our digital and encrypted command and control system enables joint counterair operations in a manner that is state-of-the-art even on a global scale. The battle fields of today and tomorrow highlight the joint combat between all the services along with utilizing also space, electromagnetic spectrum, and cyber domain. Out of these, the focal point is currently developing air and land cooperation and space functionalities. Any service cannot win a battle alone, and three times one is five at minimum. Next, I will cover our history that is marked by the heroic acts of the distinguished veterans of our wars. Thank you, Hannes and Pentti! This year, the Finnish Ground-Based Air Defence turns to 100 years. Simultaneously, together with our 107-year-old Air Force, the Finnish air defence reaches a true milestone. The Ground-Based Air Defence had an opportunity to show its deterring capability in the great air raids against Helsinki during the Continuation War in 1944. At that time, Stalin attempted to separate Finland from the war by bombing Helsinki. That didn’t go as planned. A substantial air defence had been formed to protect Helsinki, distinguished by its unique command structure and technical proficiency. Air surveillance radars were also introduced as an emerging capability.&#xa0;The barrage fire of the ground-based air defence and Me 109 G fighters operating from the Malmi airport created a deterrence due to which the bombs did not drop in Helsinki. Also, the feats performed by our flying aces remain unrivalled. Even though Stalin had thought before the Winter War that Finland did not possess air power due to shortcomings with a bomber squadron, our Air Force was capable of inflicting heavy losses to the Soviet Union’s bomber squadrons. The heritage units of Karelia Air Wing alone shut down over 1,000 Soviet bombers. Back then, and now in Ukraine, the resources were concentrated to the most vital functions and the tactics made an efficient use of the existing outnumbered equipment. The seamless cooperation between the mechanics and pilots, and the esprit de corps guaranteed success in the air&#xa0;– while our heroes were fighting in the frontline. Examining only the previous battles leads to waging the next war with the means of the previous one. History, experience and operational culture do nevertheless provide a strong foundation for improving operations considering the change of battlefield and the prospects of future technology. It is of great importance to combine a long-term, goal-oriented development with rapid and agile innovation and also with battlefield experiences. Thirdly, I will bring up how the gravity of the North keeps rising alongside the significance of the Arctic regions within the global security framework. As a member of NATO, we no longer stand alone and we are able to advance our defence capabilities seamlessly with our closest neighbours thus answering to changes in the security environment. Nordic cooperation is a key component in developing the deterrence and defence of NATO. From the air defence perspective, this development is spearheaded by the construction of command and control capability for Nordic air operations. Our goal is to fight as one air force under all circumstances. The Nordic Air Operations Centre at Bodø –&#xa0;put into operation this year – creates the conditions for commanding air defence resources in the Nordic region. The centre also provides a base for structural improvements of NATO’s air defence. Strong North is a guarantee that we are carrying our responsibility for the security of the entire Europe. It is noted, and it is appreciated in both European and American continents. I’d like to conclude by saying that even though we are part of NATO, the final responsibility of our defence falls to us. It is my relief to state that Finland has been awake. Our defence has been developed in a determined and persevering manner –&#xa0;not by making sharp turns after trends, but by being proactive and assessing each situation. I know from my own experience that here at the shores of Lake Saimaa the will to defend the country, preparedness and collaboration are alive and strong throughout the society. I would like to thank the 250-year Kuopio and the entire province for the solid support to Karelia Air Wing. Parade troops; as I’m looking at you before me, I’m proud to declare that our air defence will protect the North also for the coming 100 years. Let us raise three cheers for our homeland! Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:06:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/speech-by-the-reviewing-officer-of-the-finnish-defence-forces-flag-day-parade-4-june-2025 2025-06-04T10:06:00Z The Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-vice-chairman-of-the-joint-chiefs-of-staff-visited-finland-2 Admiral Grady’s first visit to Finland started at the Defence Command, Helsinki, on Monday, June 2. Admiral Grady and his delegation were received by the Commander of the Defence Forces, General Janne Jaakkola, and the Chief of the Defence Command, Lieutenant General Vesa Virtanen. At the Defence Command, Admiral Grady was introduced to the principles of Finnish national defence. Finland’s NATO integration and the Finland-US bilateral relations were also discussed. – It was a great honour to receive Admiral Grady here in Finland. The visit gave us a great, valuable opportunity to introduce Finland’s unique defence system, which is based on general conscription, capability to defend the entire country and wide societal commitment.&#xa0; At the same time, we could exchange ideas about mutually important issues. We appreciate the long-term, steady cooperation that we have had over the years with the United States, and we will take it further, Lieutenant General Virtanen said at the end of the visit. After the discussions at the Defence Command, the delegation visited the Coastal Brigade on Tuesday, June 3. At the Coastal Brigade, the delegation familiarized themselves with Finland's maritime defence and discussed, among other things, regional cooperation. Admiral Grady also met the President of the Republic, Alexander Stubb, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence Esa Pulkkinen. Admiral Grady commented on the visit, emphasizing the role of regional cooperation: – It was an honor to meet with President Stubb, General Jaakkola, and our Finnish partners in Helsinki. Finland’s steadfast commitment to NATO and regional security is clear and commendable. Together, we reaffirmed our shared dedication to deepening defense cooperation, enhancing interoperability, and standing together in defense of the Baltic Sea region and the broader Euro-Atlantic community. Tue, 03 Jun 2025 16:45:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-vice-chairman-of-the-joint-chiefs-of-staff-visited-finland-2 2025-06-03T16:45:00Z The Order of the Cross of Liberty announces - The Orders of the Cross of Liberty conferred on 4th of June 2025 https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-order-of-the-cross-of-liberty-announces-the-orders-of-the-cross-of-liberty-conferred-on-4th-of-june-2025 For military service in peacetime: &#xa0; 1st Class with star and swords of the Order of Liberty Virtanen, Vesa Juhani, lieutenant general, Helsinki 1st Class with swords of the Order of Liberty Junttila, Timo Tapio, rear admiral, Heinola 3rd Class with swords of the Order of Liberty Honkanen, Jukka Esa Taneli, lieutenant colonen, Mikkeli Runola, Tuomas Eerik, lieutenant commander, Naantali 4th Class with swords of the Order of Liberty Karppelin, Arto Toivo Tapani, engineer first lieutenant Medal of Liberty First Class of the Order of the Cross of Liberty Hartikainen, Jani Juhani, chief warrant officer, Virrat Medal of Liberty Second Class of the Order of the Cross of Liberty Asikainen, Antti Juhani, senior coast guard Hirvijoki, Esko Martti Eemil, senior coast guard, Turku &#xa0; For meritorious service to the Defence Forces: 4th Class of the Order of Liberty Hannola, Tarja Anitta, researcher, Kerava Medal of Merit 2nd Class of the Order of the Cross of Liberty Palonen, Liisa Marita, secretary of personnel affairs, Uurainen For meritorious service in support of national defence: 3rd Class with swords of the Order of Liberty Lindeman, Joni Wilhelm, lieutenant colonel, Naantali &#xa0; Further information:&#xa0; Order of the Cross of Liberty website: <a href="http://www.vapaudenristinritarikunta.fi">www.vapaudenristinritarikunta.fi&#xa0;</a> Order of the Cross of Liberty office: <a href="mailto:info@vapaudenristinritarikunta.fi">info@vapaudenristinritarikunta.fi</a> &#xa0; Fri, 30 May 2025 07:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-order-of-the-cross-of-liberty-announces-the-orders-of-the-cross-of-liberty-conferred-on-4th-of-june-2025 2025-05-30T07:00:00Z Temporary changes to customer service of persons liable for military service during 2–5 June 2025 https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/temporary-changes-to-customer-service-of-persons-liable-for-military-service-during-2-9-june-2025 While maintenance is in progress, you cannot return the following forms at MyMilitary during 2-5&#xa0;June: •&#xa0;&#xa0;&#xa0; Application to unarmed service •&#xa0;&#xa0;&#xa0; Application for transfer from unarmed to armed service •&#xa0;&#xa0;&#xa0; Voluntary military service for women &amp; Questionnaire for examination of health •&#xa0;&#xa0; &#xa0;Applying to the military crisis management recruiting pool •&#xa0;&#xa0;&#xa0; Refresher training exercise notice of reception (Part B) •&#xa0;&#xa0;&#xa0; Application for changing date of entry into service / service location •&#xa0;&#xa0;&#xa0; Notification of change in the state of health •&#xa0;&#xa0; &#xa0;Update request for personal information •&#xa0;&#xa0;&#xa0; Voluntary exercise notice of reception (Part B) •&#xa0;&#xa0;&#xa0; Application for exemption from a refresher training exercise •&#xa0;&#xa0;&#xa0; Application for exemption from military service on the basis of multiple nationality In case you need to address your written communications to the Regional Office at this time, you may fill in the forms available at <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/forms">puolustusvoimat.fi/asiointi/lomakkeet</a>, and return the printout to your own Regional Office, which will then provide its decision on the matter by a letter with acknowledgement of receipt only. You may look up your own Regional Offices’ contact information: •&#xa0;&#xa0; &#xa0;sign in MyMilitary, or •&#xa0;&#xa0; &#xa0;go to puolustusvoimat.fi/aluetoimistot/loyda-aluetoimistosi. Mon, 26 May 2025 12:08:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/temporary-changes-to-customer-service-of-persons-liable-for-military-service-during-2-9-june-2025 2025-05-26T12:08:00Z Funding from the European Defence Fund for a new generation software-defined radio that combines AI-based data transmission and electronic warfare https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/funding-from-the-european-defence-fund-for-a-new-generation-software-defined-radio-that-combines-ai-based-data-transmission-and-electronic-warfare The Finnish Defence Forces have identified the need to develop new solutions to strengthen and integrate information transfer, positioning, identification as well as electronic support and electronic influence in Finland's and NATO's northern areas. The troops need up-to-date situational information in all operational environments. To meet the challenges, a new generation of modular and scalable software-defined radio product family is now being developed, which will also combine command functions with electronic warfare capabilities. The project, which is worth over 50 million euros in total, has received 45 million euros in support from the European Defence Fund (EDF) in the application for the 2024 AI-based Multifunctional Aperture and transceiver (AIMA) work programme. The funding was granted to a multinational corporate consortium led by Patria for the AI-WASP (Artificial Intelligence Warfare Adaptive Swarm Platform) project. The project is led by Finland, and Spain, Italy, Estonia, Sweden, and Greece are also participating. All participating countries have signed a letter of intent regarding the development of the AIMA system and are contributing national funding in addition to EU support. The project's desired performance includes a dynamically networked and encrypted communication solution that can operate under disrupted conditions, where a broadband passive reconnaissance sensor and an active jamming transmitter are combined on the same platform. The mentioned features enable simultaneous operation by utilising electronically directed antennas, convergence (linking multiple technologies and functions in the same device), digitalisation, and artificial intelligence. AIMA is being developed to function under arctic conditions, but the solutions' applicability is not limited to operational environments in the north. The project encompasses both manned and unmanned systems of various sizes and in all operational environments. Fri, 16 May 2025 07:03:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/funding-from-the-european-defence-fund-for-a-new-generation-software-defined-radio-that-combines-ai-based-data-transmission-and-electronic-warfare 2025-05-16T07:03:00Z The Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces participated in the meetings of the military committees in Brussels https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-commander-of-the-finnish-defence-forces-participated-in-the-meetings-of-the-military-committees-in-brussels On Wednesday 14 May, the strengthening of deterrence and collective defence, the development of NATO's capabilities, ongoing operations, and support to Ukraine were discussed at the meeting of NATO's Military Committee. The meeting was chaired by the Chairman of NATO's Military Committee, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone. &#xa0; On Thursday, 15 May, the themes for the meeting of the European Union Military Committee were the development of European security and defence as well as crisis management operations. The meeting was chaired by the Chairman of the European Union Military Committee, General Robert Brieger. Thu, 15 May 2025 13:13:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-commander-of-the-finnish-defence-forces-participated-in-the-meetings-of-the-military-committees-in-brussels 2025-05-15T13:13:00Z Keel Laying of Second Pohjanmaa-Class Multi-Role Corvette in Rauma https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/keel-laying-of-second-pohjanmaa-class-multi-role-corvette-in-rauma Construction of the second corvette began in October 2024. During the ceremony held in Rauma Marine Constructions’ (RMC) multi-purpose hall, the vessel’s keel block was placed on the building blocks, and traditional lucky coins were laid beneath it. In addition to RMC personnel, the ceremony was attended by representatives from the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command, the Finnish Navy, weapons system supplier Saab, and the classification society Lloyd’s Register. The keel of the first multi-role corvette was laid in April 2024, and its hull was completed in December the same year. The vessel is currently being prepared for launching. The Squadron 2020 project is scheduled for completion by 2029. RMC and its subsidiary RMC Defence Oy are building a total of four Pohjanmaa-class corvettes for the Finnish Navy. The vessels are designed for year-round operations in the demanding and variable conditions of the Baltic Sea. Their capabilities include naval mine-laying, anti-submarine warfare, securing sea lines of communication, and sustained maritime presence. <a href="https://merivoimat.fi/en/pohjanmaa-class" target="_blank">Read more about the Finnish Navy’s Squadron 2020 project.</a> &#xa0; Fri, 09 May 2025 06:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/keel-laying-of-second-pohjanmaa-class-multi-role-corvette-in-rauma 2025-05-09T06:00:00Z Finnish 5G expertise made a leap – a successful testing experiment enables secure communications in defence operations across borders https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-5g-expertise-made-a-leap-a-successful-testing-experiment-enables-secure-communications-in-defence-operations-across-borders An example of this is the inter-agency network VIRVE 2 built in close co-operation by Erillisverkot and Elisa based on high-performance 5G technology, which enables efficient and secure inter-authority co-operation. And, at the initiative of the Finnish Defence Forces, Telia and Nokia have successfully simulated the communications requirements of a modern defence operation on a 5G network. For instance, service personnel on the move need a steady, secure, and information secure access to critical applications – also while in allies’ territory and between nations. The solution supports present-day and future defence operations in which forces must be able to communicate reliably and continuously beyond national borders in, for instance, joint operations with allies. This technological breakthrough was achieved by means of Nokia’s 5G technology on Telia’s commercial network as part of a Nordic training exercise in March 2025. The testing experiment involved building a seamlessly-functioning mobile 5G network slice onto three nations’ commercial 5G networks that was then operated by an intelligent system. The system in turn ensured sustained information security and fluent operating under demanding conditions. – This testing experiment marks a major landmark in enhancement of 5G dual-use opportunities in defence use and also in the extension of communications readiness necessary in the NATO area. We are satisfied with co-operation with Telia and Nokia in this programme and eager to examine new opportunities for integrating 5G as part of our activity, says Defence Command ACOS C5, Major General Jarmo Vähätiitto. Using the most modern technology, the testing experiment enables secure 5G network slicing that serves both civilian and defence purposes. Improving the flexible resilience of defence operations and capability, this technology reinforces the Finnish Defence Forces’ readiness to operate in a rapidly changing world. Next the Finnish Defence Forces will continue to utilise telecommunications operators’ mobile technology as part of command and control of military operations during, among other, the training exercises executed in the spring of 2025. The training exercises are part of a long-term development effort towards a solution which has field communications networks and commercial technologies form a seamless hybrid solution. Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:32:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finnish-5g-expertise-made-a-leap-a-successful-testing-experiment-enables-secure-communications-in-defence-operations-across-borders 2025-04-15T13:32:00Z President of the Republic encourages the youth to get moving – Commander-in-Chief’s physical activity programme supports preparing for conscript service https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/president-of-the-republic-encourages-the-youth-to-get-moving-commander-in-chief-s-physical-activity-programme-supports-preparing-for-conscript-service – I do remember how exciting it was to report for service back in 1988. Physical challenges came to mind, yet no information was easily available on how to prepare in advance. Now I want to ensure that conscripts have a better opportunity to do so, President of the Republic Alexander Stubb says. The physical activity programme is to focus on the joy of physical activity and providing comprehensive support for well-being during conscript service and its relating physical training. Rather than aiming for record-setting performance, the goal is the type of fair physical readiness that aids in enduring the marches, tests, and daily service. – This is not about setting a new record at the Cooper Run Test. What matters is that you have the energy to march, feel well, and enjoy physical activity. Our body and mind go hand in hand, President Stubb points out. <h2>New contents on social media on a weekly basis</h2> On a weekly basis, new contents of the physical activity programme will be published on the Finnish Defence Forces’ social media channels. The training regime, tips, and videos – featuring both Commander-in-Chief and conscripts – will offer easy-access methods for increasing physical activity as part of everyday life. The full programme, free of charge, can be downloaded at the Finnish Defence Forces’ MarsMars -application (additional information on MarsMars.fi) and online on the intti.fi -site at: link. The importance of being physically active increasingly relevant Alongside promoting physical preparedness, the training programme of Commander-in-Chief encourages developing physical activity behaviours that last a lifetime. Sustained good physical performance capacity is useful while in service and also throughout one’s life. – Physical activity does not drain our energy but rather gives us more of it. My philosophy is that an hour of physical activity contributes two hours to my day, President Stubb summarises. The campaign will also be seen on social media channels of President of the Republic and Office of the President of the Republic of Finland. Enhancing physical activity and performance capacity in the call-ups is part of the Finnish Government’s Get Finland Moving -programme that aims to increase the physical activity of every age group in society. For more information on the programme, see&#xa0;<a href="https://suomiliikkeelle.fi/en/">suomiliikkeelle.fi/en/</a>. Mon, 14 Apr 2025 07:14:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/president-of-the-republic-encourages-the-youth-to-get-moving-commander-in-chief-s-physical-activity-programme-supports-preparing-for-conscript-service 2025-04-14T07:14:00Z Finland hosts annual NORDEFCO Nordic Commanders’ Meeting in Norfolk, Virginia https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-hosts-annual-nordefco-nordic-commanders-meeting-in-norfolk-virginia The event was hosted by the Commander of the Defence Forces, General Janne Jaakkola. In addition to the Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces, the Swedish, Norwegian, Danish and Icelandic Chiefs of Defence also met Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, Admiral Pierre Vandier, and Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, &#xa0;General Chris Badia as well as Commander of Joint Force Command Norfolk, Vice Admiral Doug Perry. At the core of Nordic Defence Cooperation is the ability to conduct, and command, combined joint military operations to manage both present and future challenges together. “The joint meetings with JFCNF and ACT provided an excellent platform to deepen the Nordic nations’ understanding of the current posture and activities of the future command structure as well as the longer development of the Alliance“, said General Janne Jaakkola.&#xa0; Finland holds the chair of the Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO) in 2025. &#xa0;Finland took over the rotation-based chairmanship from Denmark. Both on the military and political level, the main focus of Finland’s chairship is on the implementation of the Nordic defence cooperation political steering document, Vision for Nordic Defence Cooperation 2030. Work is being done, among other things, in the area of capability and defence materiel, as well as in military mobility, logistics and security of supply. &#xa0; Thu, 10 Apr 2025 19:17:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-hosts-annual-nordefco-nordic-commanders-meeting-in-norfolk-virginia 2025-04-10T19:17:00Z The Vice Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-vice-chief-of-the-general-staff-of-the-polish-armed-forces-visited-finland During the visit, the security situation in Europe and defence cooperation between Finland and Poland were discussed, both bilaterally and as part of the alliance. The guests were introduced to the Finnish conscription system. Major General Dymanowski was familiarised with the activities of the Navy in the Coastal Brigade and visited Nyland Brigade's live firing exercise SYD in Syndalen. In addition, Major General Dymanowski was familiarised with the operations of the Border Guard by visiting the Southeast Finland Border Guard District in Vaalimaa, where the host was Brigadier General Mika Rytkönen, Chief of Operations of the Border Guard. ” I would like to thank Major General Dymanowski for the good and open discussions. Poland is an important ally for Finland, with a very strong national defence”, said Chief of the Defence Command, Lieutenant General Vesa Virtanen. ” We are both frontline countries on NATO's eastern flank, which is why we have a lot of common interests. It was a pleasure to present the Finnish conscription system. The conscripts of the Uusimaa Brigade demonstrated a high level of expertise in demanding live fires training”, Virtanen concluded. Thanking for the hospitality and flawless organization of the visit, Major General Dymanowski expressed his appreciations for the Finish reserve systems and mentioned that Poland and Finland share the same threat perceptions and overall approach to deterrence and defence. “We have summarised our military cooperation so far, but more importantly we discussed new fields of our partnership, mainly focussed on air and artillery exercises as well as countering hybrid threats” he said.&#xa0; &#xa0; Thu, 10 Apr 2025 12:10:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-vice-chief-of-the-general-staff-of-the-polish-armed-forces-visited-finland 2025-04-10T12:10:00Z New technologies and practices shape defence research – How will Finland prepare for future threats and take advantage of new opportunities? https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/new-technologies-and-practices-shape-defence-research-how-will-finland-prepare-for-future-threats-and-take-advantage-of-new-opportunities- Finland’s security environment has changed for the worse, which in turn underlines the significance of defence research and development. The advancement of technologies, especially the growth of drone warfare, and progress of sensor technology entail new challenges on the battlefield presupposing constant innovation. The war in Ukraine has demonstrated that in crisis situations the development of new concepts can be swifter than previously thought. Defence research heavily relies on international co-operation. Finland’s membership in NATO has deepened research and development in particular through NATO research programmes. The European Defence Fund (EDF) of the European Union supports Finnish research, and bilateral co-operation with Sweden and the U.S.A. as well as arctic defence research strengthen Finland’s competence and readiness. Finnish defence industry and startups work closely with the Finnish Defence Forces, which supports military security of supply and technological frontrunning. Defence Research Yearbook 2025 presents, among other, the following key trends: <ul> <li>Analysis of the defence system and operational environment – Development of the defence system and changes in the operational environment.</li> <li>AI’s role in defence – Multidisciplinary study on AI applications in defence.</li> <li>Development of Finnish society (2025–2045) – Forecasts for development of society in Finland over the coming decades.</li> <li>Strategic anticipating – Methods of anticipatory research and their application in defence planning.</li> <li>Innovations in the Finnish Defence Forces’ research – Role of the Finnish Defence Forces’ research organisations in innovation.</li> <li>Development of operational art – Grounds for development of operational art and future challenges.</li> <li>Future of NATO and Russia – Research on the future of NATO and Russia in strategic planning.</li> <li>Battlespace information management and C2 – Battlespace information management and development of command and control.</li> <li>Soldier’s wellbeing and support measures – Combatant’s performance competence, development of demobilisation phases, and monitoring of wellbeing.</li> <li>Effects and protection – Nuclear impacts, stealth materiel, capability development of micro-drones, and CBRN protection.</li> </ul> Long-term research combined with the ability to react to rapidly changing threats constitute a solid basis for the defence system. The Finnish Defence Forces will continue comprehensive research co-operation to ensure that Finland’s defence meets the challenges posed by the changing operational environment.&#xa0; Thu, 03 Apr 2025 13:21:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/new-technologies-and-practices-shape-defence-research-how-will-finland-prepare-for-future-threats-and-take-advantage-of-new-opportunities- 2025-04-03T13:21:00Z Nordic Defence Cooperation Deepens in Military Optronics and Command and Control – New FISE Framework Agreements Signed for Ground Surveillance Sensors and Cognitive HF Radios https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/nordic-defence-cooperation-deepens-in-military-optronics-and-command-and-control-new-fise-framework-agreements-signed-for-ground-surveillance-sensors-and-cognitive-hf-radios On 2 April 2025, Major General Tero Ylitalo, Chief of the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command, and Rebecca Ihrfors, Head of the Command and Control Systems Division at the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), signed an Implementing Arrangement for Joint Procurement of C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence), to which Norway and Denmark are also invited to join. The arrangement covers systems that provide a common situational picture, communication, decision support and intelligence information that command functions need for issuing orders and leading units. In connection with this, a military optronics FISE framework agreement was signed with the Swedish company Bertin Exensor AB, and a C4I FISE framework agreement was concluded with the Finnish company KNL (Telenor Maritime Oy). Under the agreement, unmanned ground surveillance sensors can be procured from Bertin Exensor AB. These are autonomous surveillance devices deployed in the terrain, capable of detecting movement, sound, or other signatures caused, for example, by vehicles, personnel, or weapon discharges. The sensors can transmit collected data forward via radio communication or similar means. Norway and Denmark decided to join this framework agreement immediately. The agreement with KNL enables the procurement of cognitive High Frequency (HF) radios. Cognitive HF radios are communication devices capable of autonomously assessing the radio frequency environment and adapting their operations accordingly. They automatically select the optimal frequency, considering interference, traffic load, and other radio conditions. The HF band allows for long-distance communication beyond the line of sight. Under the previous <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/web/logistiikkalaitos/-/1948673/suomi-ja-ruotsi-valmistelevat-sotilasoptroniikan-yhteishankintoja?languageId=en_US" target="_blank">Implementing Arrangement for Joint Procurement of Military Optronics</a>, Finland and Sweden have signed framework agreements with Aimpoint AB on 26 August 2024 and with Senop Oy on 6 November 2024. The accession of Norway and Denmark further strengthens Nordic defence cooperation, security of supply, and interoperability. The newly signed framework agreements are initially valid for ten years, after which they are automatically extended on an annual basis. Other NORDEFCO nations participating in Nordic defence cooperation may also join these agreements at a later stage. Furthermore, the terms of the agreements are applicable to the Finnish Border Guard, Finnish Customs, the Criminal Sanctions Agency, and police authorities in Finland. These authorities must have appropriate direct procurement justifications in place to utilise the agreements. Wed, 02 Apr 2025 09:41:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/nordic-defence-cooperation-deepens-in-military-optronics-and-command-and-control-new-fise-framework-agreements-signed-for-ground-surveillance-sensors-and-cognitive-hf-radios 2025-04-02T09:41:00Z Russia's Vision for the Future: A Strategic Framework in Three Key Elements https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/russia-s-vision-for-the-future-a-strategic-framework-in-three-key-elements-1 Russia's strategic and military-strategic future concept forms the foundation of the state’s long-term security and defense planning. The concept is based on the assessment of the evolution of the military-political situation, analysis of power relations, and modeling of various scenarios. Its key elements include structural changes in the armed forces, emerging military technologies, strategic deterrence mechanisms, and escalation levels in military conflicts. In its future foresight, Russia applies a multi-layered analysis that integrates mathematical models, economic foresight, geopolitical indicators, and military-strategic scenarios. The concept seeks to identify key risks and opportunities both at the regional and global levels, particularly in the context of great power competition and the development of a multipolar world order. The study that served as the basis for this Research Bulletin examined the future concept of Russia’s armed forces at the strategic level, considering its implications for military policy, defense planning, and the international security environment. 2025:5&#xa0;<a data-extension="pdf" data-size="549kB" data-uuid="a05c1e7d-a2c0-6d06-31bb-136a679c057d" href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/documents/1951253/2815786/2025-5%20Russia's%20Vision%20for%20the%20Future%20-%20A%20Strategic%20Framework%20in%20Three%20Key%20Elements.pdf/a05c1e7d-a2c0-6d06-31bb-136a679c057d/2025-5%20Russia's%20Vision%20for%20the%20Future%20-%20A%20Strategic%20Framework%20in%20Three%20Key%20Elements.pdf?t=1742890354648" target="_blank">Russia's Vision for the Future: A Strategic Framework in Three Key Elements</a> <h2>Additional information</h2> Principal Scientist, MA Sari Voinoff. <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/web/tutkimus/tutkimuslaitoksen-julkaisut#tutkimuskatsaukset" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Previous research bulletins can be found here.</a> Thu, 27 Mar 2025 12:57:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/russia-s-vision-for-the-future-a-strategic-framework-in-three-key-elements-1 2025-03-27T12:57:00Z Research bulletin on psychological effects of cyberattacks https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/research-bulletin-on-psychological-effects-of-cyberattacks Recent studies indicate high work-related stress in the cybersecurity profession. Working in cybersecurity is often compared to being in a warlike environment. This paper explores the first-hand psychological effects of experiencing a cyber incident that threatens operational continuity. The study is based on &#xa0;interviews with IT professionals and top executives. These individuals were employed in multinational corporations, hospitals, central government, financial sector, local government, or educational institutions at the time of the cyber incident. The interviews, which followed a critical incident paradigm, revealed &#xa0;feelings of disbelief and despair as initial emotional responses &#xa0;to ransomware, data theft, or other severe cyber incidents. Feelings of guilt and self-doubt were common, especially among those responsible for network security. However, some also reported feelings of purpose and self-efficacy. Having scalable resources, well-defined roles, and protecting core incident response teams from unnecessary inquiries helped alleviate stress and anxiety. Good leadership and internal communication were crucial for maintaining situational awareness and focus during incident mitigation. Long-term negative effects included increased cynicism, fear of recurrence, and contemplations for a career change, which were mitigated by in trust in colleagues, processes, and systems. Understanding the psychological strain caused by cyberattacks on the cybersecurity workforce can help develop methods to mitigate these stressors. 2025:3&#xa0;<a data-extension="pdf" data-size="640kB" data-uuid="9d278114-e577-7359-2c9b-40750b6976be" href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/documents/1951253/2815786/2025-3%20Psychological%20effects%20of%20cyberattacks.pdf/9d278114-e577-7359-2c9b-40750b6976be/2025-3%20Psychological%20effects%20of%20cyberattacks.pdf?t=1741783617259" target="_blank">Psychological effects of cyberattacks</a> <h2>Additional information</h2> Researcher, Dr Toni Virtanen &#xa0; <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/web/tutkimus/tutkimuslaitoksen-julkaisut#tutkimuskatsaukset" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Previous research bulletins can be found here.</a> Tue, 25 Mar 2025 13:28:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/research-bulletin-on-psychological-effects-of-cyberattacks 2025-03-25T13:28:00Z Research bulletin on the effects of different navy watchkeeping systems on crew performance, sleepiness, and fatigue – a review https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/research-bulletin-on-the-effects-of-different-navy-watchkeeping-systems-on-crew-performance-sleepiness-and-fatigue-a-review Most naval operations require round-the-clock watchkeeping so that vessels can operate 24 hours a day. Watchkeeping can be performed with different watchkeeping systems, which may exacerbate crew fatigue, especially during a prolonged operation. The purpose of the review is to analyse the impact of different watchkeeping systems on crew performance, sleepiness and fatigue. A significant proportion of maritime traffic accidents can be considered to be caused by human activity. Human factors that can contribute to errors and accidents can include e.g. deficiencies in technical skills, fatigue, poor judgment and risk taking. Fatigue has been identified as a critical risk factor affecting the safety of maritime operations. According to various estimates, fatigue is either the primary cause or a contributing factor in about a quarter of marine accidents. The review was conducted by collecting information from different databases using keywords selected for the purpose. Reference lists of key articles were also used in the preparation of the review. 2025:2&#xa0;<a data-extension="pdf" data-size="329kB" data-uuid="9b289388-3443-f0bc-0ffb-22cafbfbcfc4" href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/documents/1951253/2815786/2025-2_The_effects%20of_different_navy_watchkeeping_systems_on_crew_performance_sleepiness_and_fatigue.pdf/9b289388-3443-f0bc-0ffb-22cafbfbcfc4/2025-2_The_effects%20of_different_navy_watchkeeping_systems_on_crew_performance_sleepiness_and_fatigue.pdf?t=1740036932843" target="_blank">The effects of different navy watchkeeping systems on crew performance, sleepiness, and fatigue – a review</a> <h2>Additional information</h2> Research Manager, dr Petteri Simola <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/web/tutkimus/tutkimuslaitoksen-julkaisut#tutkimuskatsaukset" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Previous research bulletins can be found here.</a> Tue, 25 Mar 2025 08:30:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/research-bulletin-on-the-effects-of-different-navy-watchkeeping-systems-on-crew-performance-sleepiness-and-fatigue-a-review 2025-03-25T08:30:00Z Striking-capable delegation from Finland to the CISM Military World Winter Games in Switzerland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/striking-capable-delegation-from-finland-to-the-cism-military-world-winter-games-in-switzerland The Finnish delegation consists of service personnel and three conscripts from the Finnish Defence Forces and the Finnish Border Guard.&#xa0;The Finnish athletes will participate in cross-country, XC-skiing (TUE 25.3), biathlon (TUE 25.3), team sprint XC-skiing (WED 26.3), ski orienteering (WED 26.3 and THU 27.3), and patrol race (FRI 28.3). The skiers include Sergeants Ville Ahonen, Arsi Ruuskanen and Remi Lindholm, as well as Senior Border Guard Markus Vuorela, who achieved their best results so far at the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships completed recently. The biathlon athletes in the Finnish Delegation are Corporal Jimi Klemettinen, silver-medalist at the Biathlon Junior World Championships, as well as Sergeant Tuomas Harjula, Corporal Arttu Heikkinen and Senior Border Guard Erika Jänkä who have competed in the IBU Biathlon World Cup as part of the Finnish national team. <h2>The composition of the Finnish delegation:</h2> <ul> <li>Lieutenant Niko Husu (Guard Jaeger Regiment)</li> <li>Sergeant Arsi Ruuskanen (Kainuu Brigade)</li> <li>Sergeant Remi Lindholm (Kainuu Brigade)</li> <li>Sergeant Ville Ahonen (Guard Jaeger Regiment)</li> <li>Sergeant Tuomas Harjula (Kainuu Brigade)</li> <li>Senior Border Guard Markus Vuorela (Kainuu Border Guard District)</li> <li>Senior Border Guard Erika Jänkä (Kainuu Border Guard District)</li> <li>Corporal Arttu Heikkinen (Kainuu Brigade) &#xa0; &#xa0; &#xa0; &#xa0; &#xa0; &#xa0; &#xa0; &#xa0;&#xa0;</li> <li>Corporal Jimi Klemettinen (Kainuu Brigade)</li> <li>Corporal Miika Muotka (Kainuu Brigade).</li> </ul> The FInnish Defence Forces say to the Finnish Delegation: “You can do this!” To be participated by up to c. 1,400 athletes representing 43 nations, the sporting competition will include several world champions and medalists in cross-country-skiing and biathlon. Previously, the CISM World Winter Games were held in Germany in 2022. Thu, 20 Mar 2025 09:41:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/striking-capable-delegation-from-finland-to-the-cism-military-world-winter-games-in-switzerland 2025-03-20T09:41:00Z Flag Day Parade in Kuopio on 4 June https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/flag-day-parade-in-kuopio-on-4-june In addition to the review of troops and pass-in-review, the programme will include flight demonstrations by Hornet multi-role fighters and the aerobatic team Midnight Hawks, the MILjazz 2025 Defence Forces summer tour concert, and a static display at the harbour area. All events are free of charge. Troops participating in the parade represent the Air Force, Army, Navy, Border Guard, veterans' and national defence organisations, as well as emergency and security service partners. Approximately 1,500 personnel, over 40 vehicles, and about 15 aircraft will take part. All Air Force units will be represented. The parade will be reviewed by Commander of the Finnish Air Force Major General Timo Herranen. A field devotional service will be conducted by Chief of Air Force Chaplains Janne Huikko, and the parade commander will be Brigadier General Aki Puustinen, Chief of Staff Air Force Command Finland. The troop review ceremony will take place at the Väinölänniemi field at 12:00. The pass-in-review begins at the intersection of Kirkkokatu and Satamakatu at 13:15, proceeding northwards along Satamakatu. The reviewing stand for the parade is located at Satamatori. Music during the event will be provided by the Air Force and Navy Bands. Flypasts during the pass-in-review will feature Air Force Hornet multi-role fighters, Hawk jet trainers, and Army helicopters. Noise from the flypasts and aerial displays is expected in the Kuopio harbour area. A joint static display by the Defence Forces and other authorities will be held at the harbour area, open to the public from 09:00 to 16:00. Additionally, the MILjazz concert will take place at Satamatori from 18:00 onwards, featuring performances by the Air Force Big Band, Navy Band, and the Conscript Band’s Show Band. Preparations and rehearsals for the Flag Day begin on Tuesday, 3 June in the Väinölänniemi area and Satamatori. Further details regarding event arrangements and their impacts will be communicated two weeks prior to the event. <h2>Preliminary Schedule for Flag Day 4 June:</h2> Ceremonial flag raising, Satamatori 08:00 – 08:15&#xa0; Wreath-laying ceremony, Sankaripuisto 09:00 – 09:15&#xa0; Church service, Kuopio Cathedral 10:00 – 11:00&#xa0; Parade review, Väinölänniemi 12:00 – 12:30&#xa0; Pass-in-review and flypast, Satamakatu 13:15 – 13:45&#xa0; Static display, harbor area 09:00 – 16:00&#xa0; MILjazz 2025 concert, Satamatori 18:00 – 20:30 &#xa0; For further information, please contact Karelia Air Wing: Chief of Staff Lieutenant Colonel Samuli Tanttu&#xa0; Administrative Officer Captain Marko P. Leinonen&#xa0; Tel. +358 299 800 (Finnish Defence Forces switchboard) Wed, 12 Mar 2025 11:22:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/flag-day-parade-in-kuopio-on-4-june 2025-03-12T11:22:00Z Commander of the Defence Forces Attended Chiefs of Defence Meeting in Paris https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-the-defence-forces-attended-chiefs-of-defence-meeting-in-paris European unity and cooperation are increasingly important in the current security situation. The CHODs meeting in Paris discussed scenarios and courses of action relating to supporting Ukraine and possible security arrangements. According to General Jaakkola, the meeting provided a situation update on the preparations that have been led by the United Kingdom and France. He stated, however, that discussing the details of a possible military operation is still premature.&#xa0; &#xa0;“Due to the quickly evolving situation and uncertainty it is still advisable to proceed with preparations, even if the grounds are not complete. At this point, the discussions are more focused on scenarios or concepts than on actual plans. Concrete planning requires, for example, a stated objective, a mission, a mandate and rules of engagement. &#xa0;The preparations need to be able to adjust the planning according to the situations that arise. Decisions related to potential security arrangements, such as dedicated troop contributions, are naturally done on the highest political level, and if needed we soldiers will create a military estimate to support the decision-makers in making further preparations.” In the current situation continuing the materiel and training support to Ukraine is key, so that they can continue defending themselves. Alongside supporting, maintaining and developing Ukraine’s defence capability we must also assess and develop European defence and security to meet the changes in the security environment. Wed, 12 Mar 2025 11:06:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-the-defence-forces-attended-chiefs-of-defence-meeting-in-paris 2025-03-12T11:06:00Z Chief of Defence Command visited Ukraine https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/chief-of-defence-command-visited-ukraine As part of the programme differentiated from that of the Minister, Lieutenant General Virtanen met Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Anatolii Barhylevych. The topics discussed involved the situation on the battlefield as well as various opportunities of Finland to support Ukraine. "Finland supports the Armed Forces of Ukraine among other by providing materiel and participating in training of troops. Our discussion confirmed the current materiel needs of Ukraine and also showed that our previous support has been useful. We continue close and long-term co-operation with the Armed Forces of Ukraine," says Lieutenant General Virtanen. Tue, 11 Mar 2025 10:57:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/chief-of-defence-command-visited-ukraine 2025-03-11T10:57:00Z Romanian Deputy Chief of Defence Staff visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/romanian-deputy-chief-of-defence-staff-visited-finland The purpose of the visit was to familiarise the guest with the solutions for Finland's total defence. In addition, the security situation and cooperation between the countries were discussed. The programme included discussions at the Defence Command, as well as visits to the Guard Jaeger Regiment's local defence exercise Lively Stone and the National Defence Course. Furthermore, the National Defence Training Association and the National Emergency Supply Agency were visited. The visit to the National Emergency Supply Agency was hosted by CEO Janne Känkänen. Lieutenant General Iacob also visited Destia with a focus on the participation of Finnish businesses as actors in comprehensive security. Destia was hosted by CEO Tero Kiviniemi. ” I would like to thank Lieutenant General Iacob for his visit and for the good discussions. It was a pleasure to present a Finnish solution for comprehensive security and defence to which the whole of society is committed. Once again, it was impressive to follow the skills and attitudes of the reservists and conscripts who participated in the local defence exercise”, said Chief of the Defence Command, Lieutenant General Vesa Virtanen. ” In this security situation, it is important that we work closely with our allies. Finland is committed to NATO's 360-degree approach to security, as evidenced by the fact that our Hornet fighters participated in air surveillance in Romania last summer. Romania, like us, is a frontline country in NATO, so we have many common interests. The Black Sea region is strategically important, and Romania is a regionally strong security provider with a large armed force. We are pleased to deepen our cooperation with them”, Virtanen said. ” Our visit to Finland underlines the growing partnership between our armed forces. Last year's air policing mission in Romania with the participation of Finnish F-18s demonstrated our shared commitment to the security of allied airspace. This operational cooperation is essential in the context of the security challenges in the region,” General Iacob says. “ Hybrid threats and heightened activity on our borders are realities that both Romania and Finland face. Disinformation, interference and hostile propaganda are just some of the tactics used to destabilize the area. By sharing information and strengthening our ties we contribute to the overall allied posture within our areas,” Iacob concludes. Fri, 07 Mar 2025 07:34:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/romanian-deputy-chief-of-defence-staff-visited-finland 2025-03-07T07:34:00Z Chief of the Defence Command visited Belgium https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/chief-of-the-defence-command-visited-belgium-1 In Brussels, the Chief of the Defence Command met with the the Director General of the European Union Military Staff, Lieutenant General Michiel van der Laan, and the Director General of the NATO International Military Staff, Lieutenant General Janusz Adamczak. The discussions focused on the current security situation and the role of NATO and the EU in ensuring security in Europe and developing military preparedness. In addition, the Chief of the Defence Command met with Ambassador Jori Arvonen, Head of Finland's Representation to the EU, and Ambassador Piritta Asunmaa, Head of Finland's Representation to NATO. In Mons, the Chief of the Defence Command met with General Markus Laubenthal, Chief of Staff of NATO's Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE). The Chief of the Defence Command reported on the state of preparations for the build up of the Multi-Corps Land Component Command (MCLCC) in Mikkeli and the FLF troops in Northern Finland. In addition, the progress of Finland's integration of NATO in the operational planning and preparation of NATO's future solutions for the command structure was discussed.&#xa0; ”In the current security situation, it is important to maintain a common situational awareness with NATO and the EU's military leadership. Finland's integration into NATO is progressing well. NATO's permanent presence in Finland, the MCLCC in Mikkeli and the FLF force in northern Finland will increase security both for Finland and for the entire alliance”, the Chief of the Defence Command stated. Lieutenant General Virtanen also inspected Finland's national military representations in the EU, NATO headquarters and the NATO's Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE). ”The number of Finnish employees, both military and civilian, in various structures is increasing systematically. We fill positions in advance with regard to the carrying capacity of our personnel system. Personnel who are deployed can be proud of their work, which serves both Finland and the whole of Western community. For the Defence Forces, it is important that the personnel have good conditions to carry out their tasks, and this is also largely related to the fact that families are happy in the new environments. Based on my experience, this is generally working well. We are constantly gathering experiences to improve in this field”, Virtanen concluded. &#xa0; Fri, 28 Feb 2025 11:20:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/chief-of-the-defence-command-visited-belgium-1 2025-02-28T11:20:00Z Deputy Chief of Staff Operations Joint Force Command Norfolk visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/deputy-chief-of-staff-operations-joint-force-command-norfolk-visited-finland During the visit Major General Michelsen discussed the characteristics of the Finnish area of operations and the co-operation between Defence command Finland and Joint Force Command Norfolk together with Deputy Chief of Staff Operations Lieutenant General Kari Nisula. Close cooperation and common understanding of the operational environment are key elements in guaranteeing the security in the High North. Joint operational plans and frequent cooperation between the commands enables a swift joint reaction even in unforeseen situations. Tue, 04 Feb 2025 14:19:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/deputy-chief-of-staff-operations-joint-force-command-norfolk-visited-finland 2025-02-04T14:19:00Z Hull of the first Pohjanmaa-class corvette completed https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/hull-of-the-first-pohjanmaa-class-corvette-completed The project is progressing towards the completion of all four vessels by 2029. Construction of the first corvette began in Rauma in April 2024, followed by the start of the second vessel’s construction in October 2024. The corvettes will be commissioned in stages between 2027 and 2029. RMC and its subsidiary RMC Defence Oy are building the Pohjanmaa-class multi-role corvettes for the Finnish Navy. The ships are designed to operate in the changing conditions of the Baltic Sea. The Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command serves as the contracting authority. The corvettes are equipped for year-round naval operations and can perform missions such as maritime attack prevention, naval mine-laying, underwater warfare, and securing maritime connections. <a href="https://merivoimat.fi/en/pohjanmaa-class" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read more about the Navy's Squadron 2020 project.</a> Mon, 03 Feb 2025 13:56:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/hull-of-the-first-pohjanmaa-class-corvette-completed 2025-02-03T13:56:00Z Commander of the Defence Forces visited Poland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-the-defence-forces-visited-poland General Jaakkola visited the Polish special forces and the Cyber Command and gave a speech at War Studies University (Akademia Sztuki Wojennej) in Warsaw. &#xa0;The speech was titled ”Military Strategic perspectives in the New Era”.&#xa0; The visit included discussions about the present security situation and development of the armed forces. General Jaakkola emphasized the role of information exchange in the current security situation: -&#xa0;&#xa0; &#xa0;I would like to thank General Kukuła for a fruitful meeting and discussions. &#xa0; It is very important for allies to meet and exchange ideas about the current as well as long-term security issues. Our countries have a lot in common, our investment in defence for example. We also discussed the Finnish model of enhancing preparedness and readiness, which helps us ensure that authorities are able to respond quickly, among other things.&#xa0; &#xa0; <ul> </ul> Thu, 23 Jan 2025 15:14:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-the-defence-forces-visited-poland 2025-01-23T15:14:00Z The Finnish Defence Forces Strongly Represented at SecD-Day 2025 https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-finnish-defence-forces-strongly-represented-at-secd-day-2025 The Defence Forces are actively seeking new innovations, and SecD-Day offers an opportunity to understand the current trends in defence material market and technological development. The event focuses on technological innovations and expertise in the defence, security, aerospace, and aviation sectors. SecD-Day, held for the second time, will gather over 200 exhibitors from around the world to Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre. The event covers various security domains, from cybersecurity to space technology. Finnish companies such as the Defence Forces’ strategic partners Insta, Millog, Nammo, and Patria will be present, alongside international names like Lockheed Martin, Saab, and Airbus. In addition to exploring the exhibition, attendees can take part in a curated conference program. More information: <a href="https://secd-day.messukeskus.com/">https://secd-day.messukeskus.com/</a> &#xa0; Tue, 21 Jan 2025 13:01:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-finnish-defence-forces-strongly-represented-at-secd-day-2025 2025-01-21T13:01:00Z Finnish Military Intelligence Review 2025 is published https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/military-intelligence-review-2025 Military intelligence is a key component of Finland's security. It supports the decision-making of the Finnish Defence Forces and the government by providing up-to-date intelligence for decision-makers. Intelligence helps anticipate threats and ensures the effectiveness of Finland's defense, particularly in a geopolitically challenging environment. You can find the 2025 Finnish Military Intelligence Review&#xa0;<a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi:8443/en/publications-and-flyers" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>. Thu, 16 Jan 2025 13:09:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/military-intelligence-review-2025 2025-01-16T13:09:00Z Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces to attend the meeting of the NATO Military Committee in Brussels https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-the-finnish-defence-forces-to-attend-the-meeting-of-the-nato-military-committee-in-brussels The topics of the meeting include: updates on NATO's operational plans and progress of the planning process, cooperation with partners, NATO's ongoing operations and support to Ukraine. The meeting will be chaired by the Chairman of the Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer. The NATO Military Committee, which consists of the defence chiefs of the member states, meets three times a year to discuss NATO's tasks, activities and operations, and to provide military advice to NATO's political leadership, the North Atlantic Council, on how to respond to security challenges. Follow the discussion on social media using the event tags: #NATOMC and #NATOCHoDs More information about the event can be found in NATO's press releaseFollow the discussion on social media using the event tags: #NATOMC and #NATOCHoDs More information about the event can be found in NATO's press release: <a href="https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/news_231842.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/news_231842.htm</a> Wed, 15 Jan 2025 07:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/commander-of-the-finnish-defence-forces-to-attend-the-meeting-of-the-nato-military-committee-in-brussels 2025-01-15T07:00:00Z Finland joins NSPA’s OLSP HNAS Project Group and Medical Support Partnership https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-joins-nspa-s-olsp-hnas-project-group-and-medical-support-partnership NSPA’s Operational Logistics Support Partnership (OLSP) is a multinational and multifunctional support partnership that offers fast track access to a wide range of contracted support to military operations, missions and exercises worldwide.&#xa0; Operations support and services provided by the NSPA include but are not limited to transportation services, facility support services, food and catering services, medical services and fuel supply and services.&#xa0; From January 1st 2025 Finnish Defence Forces has been a member the Operational Logistics Support Partnership Host Nation Augmentation Services Project Group (HNAS PG) whose mission is to develop the OLSP’s support and services to meet NATO’s evolving demands for the Host Nation Support provided by its member nations to allied troops. Finland has been a member of the Operational Logistics Support Partnership since 2014. NSPA support and services have been used by the Finnish Defence Forces to support various operations and deployments, including the Finnish Air Force deployment to support NATO Air Policing and Shielding Missions in Romania in June-July 2024, and Finnish troop contributions to NATO’s Kosovo Force (KFOR) and Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) in Iraq. <h2>Medical Support Partnership</h2> On January 1st 2025 the Finnish Defence Forces also joined the NSPA’s Medical Support Partnership. &#xa0;Through the Partnership, the NSPA supports Allied Armed Forces with multinational medical procurement options for alliance operations and exercises. The partnership also offers Finnish Defence forces opportunities to participate in common planning of requirements for alliance medical services.&#xa0; Together with Finland, Sweden was welcomed as the newest full members of the Partnerhip.Its founding members are Canada, Denmark, Italy, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Norway. <h2>Logistics cooperation since year 2000</h2> The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) is NATO’s lead organisation for multinational acquisition, support and sustainment in all domains, to all 32 Allies and partners.&#xa0; Finland’s co-operation with NSPA and its predecessors dates back to the year 2000 when it signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the NATO Maintenance and Supply Organisation (NAMSO). Learn More: <a href="https://www.nspa.nato.int/news/2025/nspa-welcomes-finland-in-the-operational-logistics-support-partnership-olsp" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NSPA welcomes Finland in the Operational Logistics Support Partnership (OLSP)</a> <a href="https://www.nspa.nato.int/news/2025/nspa-welcomes-finland-and-sweden-into-its-medical-support-partnership" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NSPA Welcomes Finland and Sweden into its Medical Support Partnership</a> Thu, 02 Jan 2025 10:49:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/finland-joins-nspa-s-olsp-hnas-project-group-and-medical-support-partnership 2025-01-02T10:49:00Z Promotion in the General Corps https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/promotion-in-the-general-corps Brigadier General Salo will start as Assistant Chief of Staff J7 at NATO's Joint Command in Norfolk (JFCNF) on the same day. Previously, he has served as Head of the Reserve Officer School, Commander of the Crisis Management Force in Iraq and Special Adviser to the Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces. He was promoted to colonel on 4 June 2021. Tue, 31 Dec 2024 22:01:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/promotion-in-the-general-corps 2024-12-31T22:01:00Z The Finnish Defence Forces' participation in the OIR operation in Iraq has ended https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-finnish-defence-forces-participation-in-the-oir-operation-in-iraq-has-ended Operation Inherent Resolve Operation Inherent Resolve was established in 2014 on the initiative of the United States to combat the rapid and violent spread of the terrorist organization ISIS (Daesh) and other extremist organizations in Syria and Iraq. The main objective of the operation was to prevent the advance of ISIS and eliminate its combat capability. The aim was also to stabilize the region, provide humanitarian aid and support the local security forces.&#xa0; Finland joined OIR with a branch of about 50 people in August 2015. The task of the Finns was to act as advisors and train Kurdish Peshmerga troops in the fight against ISIS. At the time of completion, Finland has been performing demanding training, counselling, safety and personnel tasks for almost ten years. Around a thousand Finns served in Iraq, most of whom were reservists. ”I would like to thank the soldiers who have participated in the operation over the years. The work you have done in challenging conditions has been fruitful and appreciated, says Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations,” Lieutenant General Kari Nisula. Finnish influence will be visible in the region for a long time to come The Finnish troops returned to Finland from Iraq and the three-tongued flag used during the operation were received by the Army's Chief of Operations, Brigadier General Sami-Antti Takamaa. Takamaa received the troops at the Pori Brigade's crisis management centre in Säkylä. The flag will later be handed over to the Military Museum.&#xa0; “The effects of Finnish training can still be seen as the capability and competence of the trained troops develops, which is important for the long-term security of the region. Most peshmergas still remember the training we gave them, and they tell us that every time they meet Finns,“ says Takamaa. The operation was established in response to the rise of ISIS and its crimes against humanity, as well as the rise of international terrorism and its impact globally. ISIS has lost most of its territory in recent years, but it continues to operate and the fight against terrorism in the region continues.&#xa0; “Even if Finland's participation in the OIR operation ends, Finland's influence will be visible in the region for a long time to come. The training we provide will enable the security forces in the region to better secure their territory and ensure the safety of the local population. This reduces the ability of extremist groups to control areas, which promotes regional stability and the fight against terrorism,” says Takamaa. When the situation partially stabilized in 2019, Finland's participation changed from education to full-time safety and counselling activities. Advisors have supported tactical and operational training and security development for Iraqi regional forces.&#xa0; “As elsewhere, including in Iraq, Finns are highly valued and respected partners. The professionalism, positive attitude and friendliness of Finns are appreciated both by professional soldiers from other countries and by the local population. Finland's contribution to the operation has supported the efforts to stabilize the region and defeat ISIS, and the work of our soldiers will be visible in the region for a long time to come," Takamaa promises. Finland continues to participate in NATO's operation in Iraq Although participation in the OIR operation will end, Finland will continue to support and develop Iraq's security sector. The Finnish Defence Forces continue to participate in NATO's mission in Iraq (NMI). The purpose of the advisory is to work with the Iraqis to create comprehensive and long-term reforms of the armed forces and their administration. Reforms support the development of Iraq's security environment. "Finnish experts have long been involved in the development of the security sector, which helps Iraq and the other countries in the region to create stable and fair institutions. Advisory activities have been and will continue to be an important part of the long-term stabilisation of the region, and Finland will continue its work in this important NATO-led operation in the region," Takamaa sums up. Tue, 31 Dec 2024 10:21:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-finnish-defence-forces-participation-in-the-oir-operation-in-iraq-has-ended 2024-12-31T10:21:00Z MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF FINLAND https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/message-from-the-president-of-the-republic-of-finland-2 This past year has once again demonstrated the importance of your work. Wars in Europe, neighbouring areas and the world continue, constantly changing our international operating environment. The situation in the Middle East in particular has escalated and affected the preconditions for peacekeeping in the region. Crisis management operations are always difficult and complex. The operating conditions are demanding and change all the time. Therefore, succeeding in your missions requires continuous adaptation and great flexibility. The burden of uncertainty that overshadows your work is also heavy to bear for your loved ones. Despite the challenges, you have maintained a good spirit and high readiness to act. We can rely on the competence you have gained through your training even when it seems difficult to achieve peace. If we do not talk about peace, it will never be achieved. But the work you do for peace talks louder than any words. You put yourself in danger to make the world around us safer. The whole of Finland can be proud of you as you continue our peacekeeping tradition that reaches back eight decades. We need you more today than ever before. Thank you all for your valuable service for peace. I wish you and your loved ones very merry Christmas. And more peaceful New Year 2025. &#xa0; Alexander Stubb President of the Republic of Finland <a href="/documents/1948673/0/TASAVALLAN+PRESIDENTIN+TERVEHDYS+2024_EN.pdf/cce76156-15b9-adf6-7b31-cb7e74a19752?t=1734687982022" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="">Message from the President of the Republic of Finland</a> Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:00:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/message-from-the-president-of-the-republic-of-finland-2 2024-12-23T10:00:00Z Strengthening cyber defence partnership between Finland and the United States https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/strengthening-cyber-defence-partnership-between-finland-and-the-united-states In January 2024, Finland and the United States signed a Letter of Intent on advanced cyber partnership which creates a foundation for closer cyber defence cooperation. The objective of the Letter of Intent is to develop cyber defence to respond to the threats of today’s world. Almost a year after the signing of the Letter of Intent, the parties met at the Defence Command to evaluate the implementation of the past year’s development plan and to specify the activities to be carried out next year. &#xa0; The event was hosted by Defence Command Assistant Chief of Staff, C5, Major General Jarmo Vähätiitto accompanied by Defence Command Assistant Chief of Staff, Operations, Brigadier General Aki Heikkinen. The United States counterpart in the event was the Deputy Director of United States European Command Plans and Operations Directorate, Brigadier General James D. Cleet. Major General Jarmo Vähätiitto emphasizes the importance of the partnership and its systematic development:&#xa0; – Developing the cyber defence partnership based on the Letter of Intent has been an important step in our long-standing collaboration. This year, we have advanced joint operations, including exercises conducted both in Finland and the United States. Our aim remains to deepen this cooperation further by enhancing information exchange, personnel exchanges, and joint operations. I want to thank Brigadier General Cleet and his delegation for their visit and commitment to advancing our cyber defense cooperation, stated Major General Vähätiitto. Read more about the Letter of Intent on advanced cyber partnership signed in January 2024 <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/-/suomen-ja-yhdysvaltojen-yhteistyo-kyberpuolustuksessa-syvenee?languageId=en_US" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.&#xa0; Fri, 20 Dec 2024 12:56:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/strengthening-cyber-defence-partnership-between-finland-and-the-united-states 2024-12-20T12:56:00Z New conscripts will start their service in January https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/new-conscripts-will-start-their-service-in-january Approximately 9,550 conscripts will start their service in the Army units. About 1,600 start their service in the Navy, around 500 in the Air Force, and approximately 250 in the Border Guard units. Swedish-speaking conscripts will primarily start their service at Nyland Brigade. <h2>The recruits are divided into separate groups to minimize the spread of respiratory infections</h2> &#xa0; During the autumn, the Finnish Defence Forces have been affected by a number of different diseases causing respiratory infection symptoms, including adenovirus, which, unlike normal adenovirus epidemics, has caused severe symptoms and hospitalization of some conscripts. The environment in military barracks present their own challenges to the spread of various diseases. Infectious diseases, including adenovirus, are easily spread in the military barrack environment where conscripts stay in shared dormitories and have significant contact with one another both during training and in their leisure time. In addition to adenovirus, mycoplasma, coronavirus, and whooping cough have also been circulating. The Finnish Defence Forces have prepared for the situation, and the new batch of conscripts will be separated into groups. Basic training will continue as usual, but the groups of conscripts will be kept separate to limit the spread of respiratory infections. We are closely monitoring the infection situation at the garrisons to ensure the service and health safety of the conscripts and personnel. The conscripts will receive more information and guidance on how to prevent respiratory infections when their service begins at their own units. Fri, 20 Dec 2024 10:13:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/new-conscripts-will-start-their-service-in-january 2024-12-20T10:13:00Z The Defence Forces and the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency started a cyber defence working group https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-defence-forces-and-the-finnish-transport-and-communications-agency-started-a-cyber-defence-working-group ISAC information sharing groups (ISAC, Information Sharing and Analysis Centre) are cooperation bodies established for various sectors of cyber security. There are currently about 20 ISAC groups in Finland, involving hundreds of enterprises, communities and organizations. The National Cyber Security Centre uses the information produced by the ISAC groups also to build and maintain a situational picture of national cyber security. &#xa0; The ISAC groups operate on a voluntary basis. The purpose of the new MIL-ISAC group is to improve the defence system’s capacity to protect itself against different threats. The defence system refers to the Defence Forces and the enterprises and communities that support its operation. The members of the ISAC information sharing groups form an extensive national network that has an important role in the management of disruptions. In the event of disruptions, the groups and their members provide the network with their expertise, analysis resources, information sources and international connections. – The Defence Forces is now better informed of potential threats to the defence system that it was before, and at the same time, all members of the network have a clearer picture. MIL-ISAC is a significant step for the Defence Forces, since the group serves to improve not just our but all network members’ situational picture and preparedness. &#xa0; It is great that so many enterprises have chosen to participate in this initiative and wish to be involved in improving cyber defence as a part of comprehensive security, Lieutenant Colonel Jussi Tuovinen from the Defence Command Finland C5 Division says. Tuovinen also says that the member list of the MIL-ISAC network is classified information, because the Defence Forces does not wish to disclose partners involved in this group. The MIL-ISAC group is now kicking off and will not be expanded in the near future.&#xa0; – We may consider new members at some point towards the end of 2025, when we have got the group working properly, Tuovinen adds. <h2>ISAC groups provide sectors with good practices and networks</h2> The National Cyber Security Centre has years of experience in administering various ISAC information sharing groups. The ISAC groups discuss confidentially cyber security matters, such as threats, phenomena and good practices. The groups also contribute to the development of cyber security in their sector and the society by, for example, carrying out risk analyses, conducting research, organizing exercises and providing instructions. The National Cyber Security Centre maintains the networks and enables sharing of information and contact details within various information sharing groups.&#xa0; &#xa0; – ISAC groups have provided various sectors with good practices and networks for cyber threat control. The new MIL-ISAC group is a slightly different, multi-sector group. The fact that the group covers several sectors makes it different from earlier groups. - I am confident that the new group will find its place in the network of existing groups and will be an asset in building a picture of national cyber security, Director-General of the National Cyber Security Centre Anssi Kärkkäinen says.&#xa0; &#xa0; Thu, 19 Dec 2024 06:57:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-defence-forces-and-the-finnish-transport-and-communications-agency-started-a-cyber-defence-working-group 2024-12-19T06:57:00Z The Netherlands Chief of Defence visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-netherlands-chief-of-defence-visited-finland The topics discussed during the visit included Finnish conscription, the comprehensive security model and the situation in Ukraine. As part of the comprehensive security theme, the commanders visited the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats and the National Emergency Supply Agency. &#xa0; The programme included a meeting with Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen and visits to the Air Command and the Air Force Academy. The visit to the Air Command was hosted by the Commander of the Air Force, Major General Timo Herranen. <h4>Domestic technologies and innovations as part of defence development</h4> As the demands of the battlefield continue to increase, so do the needs for defence development. Technological advantage and the exploitation of new innovations are improving our ability to respond to traditional and new threats. One of the topics of General Eichelsheim's visit to Finland was to learn about Finnish technology and innovations. During the visit, the technology company Reaktor and the space technology company ICEYE presented their operations. Reaktor and ICEYE are examples of so-called dual-use manufacturers, producing products for both defence and civilian markets.&#xa0; Thu, 12 Dec 2024 13:41:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-netherlands-chief-of-defence-visited-finland 2024-12-12T13:41:00Z Countering cyber threats calls for international cooperation and training https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/countering_cyber_threats_calls_for_international_cooperation_and_training International cooperation is part of national cyber defence; cyber threats often cross-national borders. Cooperation is conducted and rehearsed both under NATO leadership and directly among nations. Cyber Coalition 2024 was based on challenging and realistic scenarios that helped the participants get prepared for real-life cyber challenges. The exercise enhanced the ability to detect, counter and respond to various kinds of cyber threats. Generation of shared cyber awareness and sharing of information in the cyber operating environment were also rehearsed. Participation in Cyber Coalition 2024 strengthened the cyber defence cooperation conducted between Finland and NATO. Cyber defence is part of the Alliance’s collective defence, which, in turn, is one of NATO’s core tasks. Sharing real-time cyber threat information among allies helps to identify the threat factors responsible and to respond to them as required – collectively, if necessary.&#xa0; <h2> Key national cyber security players participating in the exercise</h2> Finland participated in the exercise with staff from the administrative branches of the Defence Forces, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Transport and Communications and Ministry of the Interior. Finland’s participation in the exercise was led by the Defence Forces. The training audience operating in Finland was under the leadership of the Finnish Defence Forces C5 Agency FDFC5A. &#xa0; The President of the Republic of Finland Alexander Stubb and the Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces, General Janne Jaakkola familiarized themselves with exercise Cyber Coalition 2024 and inspected the training audience operating in Finland on 3 December in Jyväskylä. - The CC24 provides a good opportunity to rehearse and develop international and national information sharing and collaboration associated with the cyber domain. &#xa0;Another aim involved developing both the Defence Forces’ and other authorities’ shared situation awareness in matters involving the cyber domain. The exercise resulted in improved competence, but the constantly changing cyber operating environment and the phenomena involved guarantee that we will have work cut out for us in the future as well, says the Chief of the Finnish Defence Forces C5 Agency’s Cyber Division, Lieutenant Colonel Tommi Laari. &#xa0; The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom’s National Cyber Security Centre participated, starting from the planning stage, in the Defence Forces’ part of NATO’s Cyber Coalition. &#xa0; - When civilian and military authorities train together, any challenges that might come up can be identified and responded to collectively and rapidly, says Samuel Bergström, Director of the National Cyber Security Centre’s incident response department.&#xa0; - Traficom occupies a central role in securing critical infrastructure, and it is responsible for maintaining national cyber awareness.&#xa0; Common cyber exercises provide authorities with a secure platform to assess and develop procedures in challenging crisis and disturbance situations and in measures to recover from them.&#xa0; &#xa0; Thu, 05 Dec 2024 06:30:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/countering_cyber_threats_calls_for_international_cooperation_and_training 2024-12-05T06:30:00Z Bittium Wireless Ltd and Finnish Defence Forces Signed a Partnership Agreement https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/bittium-wireless-ltd-and-finnish-defence-forces-signed-a-partnership-agreement The agreement was signed on Monday, November 25, 2024, at Tampere, Finland by the Chief of the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command, Brigadier General Tero Ylitalo and Colonel Jari Virolainen the Director of the Joint Systems Centre, along with the CEO of Bittium Corporation Johan Westermarck and Senior Vice President of Defense &amp; Security Business Segment Tommi Kangas. The purpose of the agreement to ensure the availability of national competence and technologies for command and control systems in Finland that are critical for the military security of supply. It also establishes a framework for joint wartime planning. The monetary value of the partnership agreement depends on the requirements and funding of Finnish Defence Forces’ projects of the and on the agreed maintenance and development services for each year. Mon, 25 Nov 2024 12:54:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/bittium-wireless-ltd-and-finnish-defence-forces-signed-a-partnership-agreement 2024-11-25T12:54:00Z Leadership of the MCCE visited FDF Logistics Command https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/leadership-of-the-mcce-visited-fdf-logistics-command On 14 November 2024, the MCCE leadership visited the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command Headquarters in Tampere. The Movement Coordination Centre Finland (FINMCC), which is a part of the headquarters of the FDF Logistics Command HQ, is responsible for the planning, execution and ordering of the Finnish Defence Forces' strategic transports. It is the MCCE's main cooperation partner in the Finnish Defence Forces. The MCCE visiting team was led by Colonel Gioacchino Cassara, the Director of the MCCE, and hosted by Colonel Mauri Etelämäki, Deputy Chief of Operations of Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command. During the visit, the participants discussed, among other things, Finland's military logistics needs, the current status of MCCE cooperation and the development of logistics cooperation between different member states using the agreements and cooperation models of the MCCE arrangement. The Movements Coordination Centre Europe (MCCE) is based in Eindhoven, Netherlands and it comprises 30 NATO and European Union member states. Finland has been a member of MCCE since it was founded in 2007. &#xa0; Fri, 22 Nov 2024 07:13:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/leadership-of-the-mcce-visited-fdf-logistics-command 2024-11-22T07:13:00Z The Chief of the Swedish Defence Staff visited Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-chief-of-the-swedish-defence-staff-visited-finland Lieutenant General Edström took the office of the Chief of the Swedish Defence Staff in October. The purpose of the visit was to continue the discussion on defense cooperation between Finland and Sweden, and to familiarize Lieutenant General Edström with current topics concerning Finnish defense. Lieutenant General Virtanen emphasizes the importance of Sweden as Finland's close partner in defence cooperation:&#xa0; - Sweden is a very close partner and an important ally for us. Cooperation between our defense forces takes place on a daily basis, both bilaterally and as a part of the alliance. We discussed, among other things, the current security situation, strategic planning topics as well as cooperation at the operational level. We have big things on the common planning table, such as the implementation of the NATO presence in Finland and the development of a logistical support network covering the Nordic countries. It is important that we exchange experiences as we integrate our defense systems into NATO. I thank my colleague for the good discussions. Lieutenant General Edström describes the importance of Finland and Sweden's bilateral defence cooperation:&#xa0; - As close neighbors, long-standing partners and now NATO allies, the cooperation between the Swedish Armed Forces and the Finnish Defence Forces is built on a foundation of trust and shared values. Today’s discussions reaffirmed the strength of our bilateral ties and our collective commitment to the defense of our region and NATO’s shared security.The current security environment underscores the importance of seamless collaboration at all levels and functions. Sweden and Finland have a long tradition of working together, and as NATO allies, we are further deepening this partnership. The integration of our defense systems into NATO is a historic step, and I value the opportunity to exchange insights and experiences with my Finnish counterpart Lieutenant General Vesa Virtanen. I want to thank Lieutenant General Virtanen for the constructive dialogue and for hosting this important meeting. Together, we are enhancing the resilience and security of our nations and strengthening NATO’s presence in northern Europe. Wed, 20 Nov 2024 13:27:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/the-chief-of-the-swedish-defence-staff-visited-finland 2024-11-20T13:27:00Z International Operational Dialogue was held in Finland https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/international-operational-dialogue-was-held-in-finland The theme of Operational Dialogue 2024 was the security situation of the Baltic Sea Region and its special characteristics as an operating environment. In addition to topics following the theme, discussions covered broad-spectrum influencing and countering it, and possibilities of international cooperation in the Baltic Sea Region. As a part of the programme, the guests were also familiarized with the Navy’s equipment, which illustrated in practice the operational capabilities in the region. The event was attended by 16 chiefs of operations and other commanders in the functional field of operations from NATO commands and member states. The event was hosted by Deputy Chief of Staff Operations, Lieutenant General Kari Nisula. He assessed the importance of Operational Dialogue 2024 from the perspective of the cooperation between Finland and the Allies: – It is clear that Finland’s role in maintaining and promoting security in the Baltic Sea Region is very important indeed. However, conducting planning or activities only nationally is not enough. The security of the Baltic Sea Region calls for joint commitment and close and constantly developing international cooperation. &#xa0; – The event provided an excellent opportunity to discuss topical issues, share best practices and deepen cooperation even more. We Finns possess strong know-how in the domain of the Baltic Sea, and we can share best practices to our Allies. Reciprocally, we can learn from them and strengthen both our own and mutual ability to respond to any changes in the security environment. The activeness of the participants proved that we have common goals, Lieutenant General Nisula continues. The event organized in Finland was the third Operational Dialogue ever held. The previous Operational Dialogues were held in Poland and Germany.&#xa0; Read also about the visit of personnel involved in NATO’s operational planning in Finland in October 2024 <a href="https://puolustusvoimat.fi/-/naton-operatiiviseen-suunnitteluun-osallistuvaa-henkilostoa-vieraili-suomessa?languageId=en_US" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.&#xa0; <figure class="image--caption" style="height: auto; width: 437px;"> <figcaption> The event program included a presentation of the Navy’s equipment. Photo: Finnish Defence Forces. </figcaption> </figure> Fri, 08 Nov 2024 13:28:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/international-operational-dialogue-was-held-in-finland 2024-11-08T13:28:00Z US B-52 bomber in Finnish airspace 5.11. https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/us-b-52-bomber-in-finnish-airspace-5.11 The aircraft flew from Norway to Finland. Finnish fighters carried out a joint exercise with US aircraft. Cooperation improves interoperability between the allies, strengthening common deterrence and defence. Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:23:00 GMT https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/us-b-52-bomber-in-finnish-airspace-5.11 2024-11-05T12:23:00Z