The Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) comprise the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the Border Guard operating under the Ministry of the Interior but capable of integration into the FDF during wartime. As of 2023, Finland maintains approximately 24,000 active-duty personnel, with a wartime strength projected at 280,000 troops. This structure is supported by a reserve force of about 870,000 individuals, reflecting Finland’s commitment to comprehensive national defense.
Demographics and Economic Indicators
Finland has a population of approximately 5.6 million people and spans a land area of 338,455 square kilometers. In 2024, the defense budget is projected to be around €6.2 billion, accounting for 2.3% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This marks a significant increase from previous years, underscoring Finland’s dedication to bolstering its defense capabilities, particularly in light of its recent NATO membership.
Finnish Army
Size and Structure
The Finnish Army comprises approximately 16,000 personnel, including conscripts and professional soldiers, with wartime strength estimated at 180,000. The Army is organized into operational, regional, and local units:
- Operational Units: Highly mobile and designed for demanding combat missions nationwide.
- Regional Units: Focused on area defense and operational control.
- Local Units: Tasked with protecting critical infrastructure and supporting mobilization.
Strength and Equipment
The Army is equipped with modern and legacy systems, including:
- Main Battle Tanks: About 90 Leopard 2A4 tanks, with additional units in storage.
- Infantry Fighting Vehicles: CV90 and BMP-2 vehicles.
- Artillery: One of the largest artillery arsenals in Europe, including 700 howitzers, 700 heavy mortars, and 100 multiple rocket launchers.
- Anti-Tank Weapons: Javelin and NLAW missile systems.
- Air Defense: A range of short and medium-range systems, with plans to procure high-altitude capabilities such as David’s Sling.
- Other Mobility Enhancements: Acquisition of new 6×6 armored vehicles to replace aging platforms.
Finnish Reserve Army
Finland’s reserve system is a cornerstone of its defense strategy, enabling a wartime mobilization of up to 280,000 troops.
- Reserve Size: Approximately 870,000 trained individuals.
- Role: Rapid deployment capabilities to reinforce active units and ensure defense flexibility.
Finnish Navy
The Finnish Navy is responsible for securing maritime interests in the Baltic Sea.
- Key Vessels: Hamina-class missile boats, Katanpää-class mine countermeasure vessels, and upcoming Pohjanmaa-class corvettes, which are set to be the Navy’s largest ships since World War II.
- Focus Areas: Mine warfare, anti-submarine operations, and maritime surveillance.
- Modernization: Enhancing surface combatant capabilities and investing in new missile systems for defense.
Finnish Air Force
The Finnish Air Force is undergoing a significant transformation with the planned replacement of its aging fleet of F/A-18 Hornet fighters through the HX Fighter Program.
- Future Assets: 64 F-35A Lightning II aircraft, which will enhance Finland’s air defense and ensure interoperability with NATO allies.
- Current Fleet: F/A-18 Hornets, various trainer and transport aircraft, and advanced radar systems for airspace surveillance.
Finnish Special Forces
Finland’s Special Operations Forces (FINSOF) include:
- Utti Jaeger Regiment (UTJR): A highly trained Army unit specializing in counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and direct-action missions.
- Special Operations Detachment (SOD): A Naval unit focusing on maritime special operations and amphibious capabilities.
Defense Modernization Initiatives
Finland is pursuing a comprehensive defense modernization program:
- Air Force: Acquisition of F-35 fighters and advanced air defense systems like David’s Sling.
- Army: Investments in artillery, armored vehicles, and upgraded personal weaponry such as the RK 62 rifle.
- Navy: Pohjanmaa-class corvettes and missile systems to strengthen maritime security.
- Infrastructure: Development of new military bases and fortifications along Finland’s eastern border.
