The Finnish government plans to strengthen its capacity to detect and counter drones. The decision was taken during last week's framework negotiations and will be included in the upcoming supplementary budget at the end of May, the Finnish Ministry of the Interior announced in a press release.
"The Finnish Border Guard's (Rajavartiolaitos) and the police's observation and countermeasure capabilities are a central part of strengthening Finland's drone defence. In addition to developing the defence, the government will make a significant investment in strengthening the capacity of the authorities responsible for internal security," said Interior Minister Mari Rantanen in the press release.
The Finnish Border Guard (Rajavartiolaitos) is proposed to receive 44 million euros. The funds will be used for systems to detect, identify and manage drones, as well as for strengthened inter-agency cooperation. The goal is a comprehensive anti-drone system consisting of fixed surveillance and countermeasure systems along the eastern border and coastline, complemented by mobile capabilities, according to the press release.
The same press release states that the Finnish police is proposed to receive approximately 6 million euros for technical equipment.
NDS has previously reported that Finland has procured the Parrot Anafi UKR micro-drone.