policy_strategy

Swedish NATO Force in Finland Receives Broad Support

Sweden leads a NATO force in Finland with support from several European countries. The force aims to strengthen NATO's deterrence in Northern Europe.

Swedish NATO Force in Finland Receives Broad Support
Denmark, France, Iceland, Norway, and the United Kingdom have announced that they will participate in the buildup of the Swedish-led force Forward Land Forces Finland (FLF Finland), according to the Ministry of Defense in a press release. The force is part of NATO's forward presence and aims to enhance the alliance's deterrence in the north.

– FLF Finland is an important part of NATO's collective deterrence and defense and contributes to strengthening the alliance's capability on the northern flank, says Defense Minister Pål Jonson in the press release from the Ministry of Defense.

According to the Finnish Ministry of Defense, Sweden as the framework nation is responsible for planning and structuring the force in close cooperation with the host nation Finland and the participating countries.

– The participation of such significant and close allies sends a strong message about Europe's responsibility in NATO and the willingness to strengthen the alliance's deterrence in the northern areas, says Finland's Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen.

In peacetime, FLF Finland will train together with national units, mainly in the areas around Rovaniemi and Sodankylä. The activities will commence in 2025, and if necessary, the force can be reinforced up to brigade level.