In the middle of the, Finland has seen an increase in weapons training and self-defense initiativesdriven by their . The Helsinki Government is driving this trend by planning the opening of more than 300 new shooting rangesa significant increase from the current 670.
Finland’s actions reflect the growing concerns about regional security following Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Finland, which shares a border of 1,340 kilometers with Russiahas a deeply rooted history of defense against its eastern neighbor.
The country’s decision to join NATO last year is a sign of its commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities and, at the same time, align with western allies. This increase in self-defense activities underlines Finland’s preparedness for possible threats.
From firearms training to maintaining Cold War-era civil defense shelters, Finland is positioning itself as a model of resilience and preparedness in a volatile geopolitical climate.
Weapons training has become an important part of Finland’s national defense strategy. The National Defense Training Association has doubled its training days to 120,000 this year compared to three years ago.
Firing ranges across the country, such as the Vantaa Reservists Association in Kerava, are experimenting unprecedented interest: Membership has more than doubled in two years. The national reservists association has also seen significant growth: its membership increased in more than two thirds since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Finland’s unique approach extends to its civil defense infrastructure. Around 50,000 shelters from the Cold War eracapable of house 85% of the populationremain in operation, unlike other European nations, many of which have closed a significant number of such shelters.
These shelters are being modernized to meet the threats of modern warfare. “This is the new era of civil defense shelters”said Tomi Rask of Helsinki Rescue Services, an impulse that has arrived.
The country’s historical experiences, including Winter War against the Soviet Union, continue to shape their defensive mentality. Finland’s swift actions following Russian aggression in Ukraine highlight its determination to remain prepared.
Antti Kettunen, president of the Vantaa Reservists Association, says: “They have something in the back of their heads that tells them this is the skill I have to learn now.”. Jukka Kopra, MP, adds: “The interest in national defense is traditionally very high in Finland and, especially these days, with the Russian aggression in Ukraine, interest has increased even more.”
Miikka Kallio, firefighter and reservist, elaborates: “Some do it just for fun. Others, perhaps, for our neighbor east. “I have heard comments that they have joined the reserve in the wake of the Russian attack,” according to statements to the AP.
As Finland continues to step up its defense initiatives, its NATO membership consolidates its role in regional security. The planned expansion of shooting ranges and civil defense measures is a sign of the country’s commitment to preparedness.
With geopolitical tensions unlikely to abate, Finland’s proactive stance serves as a deterrent and as a model for other nations facing similar threats.
