Finland Enhances Military Readiness in Response to Russian Neighbor

Amid escalating tensions with Russia, Finland is enhancing its military readiness. This shift follows its recent accession to NATO and significant increases in defense spending.

Finland’s Military Transformation

Finland shares a 1,340-kilometer land border with Russia, a fact that has shaped its defense policy for decades. In April 2023, Finland’s membership in NATO marked a departure from a long-standing military non-alignment, spurred by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Increased Defense Budget

In 2022, Finland allocated €6.5 billion to its defense budget, which equates to 2.5% of its GDP, a rise from 1.9% the previous year. This funding supports the acquisition of advanced military equipment, including the first of 64 American F-35 stealth fighter jets, expected to arrive this year.

Defense Minister’s Insights

Antti Häkkänen, Finland’s Minister of Defense, conveyed a cautious outlook regarding Russian military intentions. While he believes Russia currently poses no direct military threat, he emphasized the importance of acting swiftly to bolster Finland’s defenses.

New Security Measures

In response to rising uncertainties, Finland has taken decisive measures:

• Exited the Ottawa Convention that bans anti-personnel mines.
• Prepared to fortify its border with Russia by potentially deploying land mines.
• Closed its border with Russia indefinitely, driven by concerns over hybrid threats such as increased migration for destabilization.
• Initiated the construction of a highly monitored 200-kilometer fence at strategic points along the border.

Military Readiness and Civic Support

With a mandatory military service, Finland has a reserve force of approximately 900,000 trained citizens, a significant asset for its defense strategy. This reflects a national ethos, as many Finns are proud of their readiness to defend their country.

Historical Context and Current Developments

Häkkänen noted that Russia’s military presence close to Finland is not new, recalling the considerable Russian military activities during the Cold War. Despite this context, Finland remains calm, focusing on strengthening its national defense strategy.

Conclusion

Finland is committed to prioritizing its national defense. The nation’s recent shifts clearly reflect a proactive approach to counter potential threats from its powerful neighbor, ensuring the safety and security of its citizens in an uncertain geopolitical landscape.