– This delivery meets the Swedish Armed Forces' needs here and now, while we build further knowledge on important parameters within the capability to operate in subarctic climates, says Elias Nyström, head of soldier equipment at FMV's logistics division, in the agency's press release.
The wax-free skis are designed to require minimal maintenance and are complemented in the agreement with poles from Peltonen and Nordigrip bindings that are compatible with the Armed Forces' boots.
– Technically, we see that Vita blixten, which is the Armed Forces' current ski system, is a robust and simple product that meets most needs. Many in the Armed Forces appreciate Vita blixten despite its many years of service. However, in the overall assessment, we and the army saw that the skis that NSPA has contracted with Finnish KSP Sport Oy for, will be a good complement to the Armed Forces' capability to operate in winter and subarctic climates, says Linnea Andersson, chief engineer for personal equipment within FMV's logistics division.
In spring 2023, the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command procured skis via NSPA. Their order included 8,000 skis and bindings from KSF Sport Oy and poles from Peltonen Ski Oy, according to a press release from the Defence Forces Logistics Command. The new equipment will be delivered to the Jaeger Brigade and Kainuu Brigade.
The total value of the three-year framework agreements that NSPA has entered into with the Finnish companies exceeds 11 million euros excluding VAT, according to the press release.