Finland Strengthens Defense and Security Amid Rising Russian Threat

As tensions with Russia continue to escalate, Finland has significantly enhanced its national defense strategy to safeguard its sovereignty. With Russia’s invasion of Ukraine marking a pivotal turning point, Helsinki has accelerated its preparedness for multiple forms of warfare, including nuclear threats, full-scale invasions, and hybrid warfare tactics like cyberattacks, disinformation, and the use of illegal shadow fleets for oil transport. Finland’s proactive stance on national security reflects a deeply ingrained commitment to defense that stems from historical conflicts, particularly the Soviet invasion of 1939.

Comprehensive Security Model: National Participation and Conscription
Finland’s defense strategy hinges on a comprehensive security model that engages all sectors of society. This model emphasizes deterrence through a highly trained military, strong societal involvement, and the creation of a national will to defend the state. The Finnish government relies heavily on conscription, with all males required to serve in the military for a period of nine to eighteen months, depending on their role. This mandatory service, combined with widespread civilian involvement, ensures that Finland remains resilient to external threats. This “national model of comprehensive security” seeks to make Finland a difficult target for any potential invader, as it involves everyone—from government to private sector—in defense efforts.

Counteracting Hybrid Threats: Shadow Fleet and Cybersecurity Challenges
In response to Russia’s evolving hybrid warfare strategies, Finland has been intensifying its focus on countering illegal activities such as the “shadow fleet”—Russian oil tankers bypassing Western sanctions—and other hybrid threats like disinformation, cyberattacks, and GPS disruptions. Mikko Hirvi, Deputy Commander of the Finnish Coast Guard, pointed out the rising frequency of these hybrid activities, including undersea cable tampering and the illegal transportation of Russian oil. These actions are now the subject of criminal investigations, as Finland bolsters its military readiness to face these unconventional threats.

Civil Defense Infrastructure and Nuclear Preparedness
In addition to its military defense, Finland has built a vast network of civil defense shelters to protect the population from nuclear attacks or other emergencies. Helsinki alone has shelters for over 600,000 people, and many more exist across the country. These shelters are fully equipped with essentials, including water, beds, and toilet facilities. Furthermore, every Finnish household is required to maintain an emergency “grab box” containing essential supplies such as food, water, and fuel. These measures demonstrate Finland’s longstanding commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens, especially given its 1,380 km border with Russia, the longest of any NATO member state.

Strengthened NATO and EU Partnerships
Finland’s defense strategy has also involved closer cooperation with NATO, the United States, and Sweden, particularly after Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014. This collaboration has intensified following Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine. Mikael Antell, Deputy Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that Finland’s participation in NATO has become increasingly critical in light of Russia’s destabilizing actions in Europe and beyond. In December, the European Union imposed sanctions on 16 individuals and three entities linked to Russia’s hybrid activities that threaten the EU’s stability and security.