What's New
Amid escalating tensions with Russia, Finland has seen a surge in weapons training and self-defense initiatives, spurred by its recent accession to NATO.
Finland's government is bolstering this trend by planning to open over 300 new shooting ranges, a significant increase from the current 670.
Why It Matters
Finland's actions reflect growing concerns over regional security following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Sharing a 830 mile border with Russia, Finland has a deeply ingrained history of defending itself against its eastern neighbor.
The country's move to join NATO last year signals its commitment to strengthen its defense capabilities while also aligning with Western allies. This surge in self-defense activities underscores Finland's preparation for potential threats.
What to Know
From firearm training to maintaining Cold War-era civil defense shelters, Finland is positioning itself as a model of resilience and readiness in a volatile geopolitical climate.
Weapons training has become a prominent 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.
Gun ranges across the country, such as the Vantaa Reservist Association in Kerava, are experiencing unprecedented interest, with memberships more than doubling in two years.
The national reservists' association has also seen significant growth, with membership increasing by over two-thirds since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Finland's unique approach extends to its civil defense infrastructure. About 50,000 Cold War-era shelters, capable of accommodating 85 percent of the population, remain operational, in contrast to other European nations, many of which have closed a significant number of such shelters.
These shelters are being updated to address modern warfare threats. "This is the new era of civil defense shelters," said Tomi Rask of Helsinki Rescue Services.
The country's historical experiences, including the Winter War against the Soviet Union, continue to shape its defensive mindset.
Finland's swift actions following Russia's aggression in Ukraine highlight its determination to remain prepared.
What People Are Saying
Antti Kettunen, chairman of the Vantaa Reservist Association: "They have something in the back of their head ringing that this is the skill I have to learn now."
Jukka Kopra, lawmaker: "Interest in national defense is traditionally very high in Finland and especially these days with the Russian aggression on Ukraine, the interest has risen even more."
Miikka Kallio, firefighter and reservist: "Some people do this just for fun. Some maybe because of our eastern neighbor: I've heard comments that they've joined the reservists because of the Russian attack."
What Happens Next
As Finland continues to ramp up its defense initiatives, its NATO membership solidifies its role in regional security. The planned expansion of shooting ranges and civil defense measures signals the country's commitment to readiness.
With geopolitical tensions unlikely to subside, Finland's proactive stance serves as both a deterrent and a blueprint for other nations facing similar threats.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press
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