The Finnish Defence Forces (Puolustusvoimat) are enhancing their capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, and target acquisition through the additional procurement of unmanned aerial vehicles. The microdrone Parrot Anafi UKR, developed with insights from Ukraine, is set to be delivered from the beginning of 2026.
The procurement is conducted by the Defence Forces Logistics Command via NATO's procurement agency NSPA (NATO Support and Procurement Agency), supported by an existing framework agreement between NSPA and the Finnish company Boston Group Oy. The deal includes both the aerial vehicles and associated equipment, including spare parts.
According to the Chief of Army Aviation, Lieutenant Colonel Jaakko Kauppinen, the aim is to build upon the operational and training foundation already established with existing Parrot systems within the Defence Forces. The new model is reported to be significantly more advanced, with capabilities tailored to contemporary combat conditions.
– A multi-layered use of various and continuously developing capabilities with unmanned systems is a central part of modern combat, says Kauppinen in connection with the announcement.
The current procurement follows in the wake of the Nordic agreement signed in October by the defence materiel directors of Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. The agreement aims to enable joint procurements of both micro and mini drones and strengthen cooperation in research, training, and standardisation.