Finland studies Ukraine's experience in building anti-tank ditches on the border with Russia

Studying Ukraine's experience for northern conditions

Finland is studying Ukraine's experience and is considering building anti-tank barriers along its border with Russia. The commander of the country's army, Pasi Välimäki, noted that Russia has already begun restoring its military potential, despite the conflict with Ukraine now in its fifth year. The military leadership intends to test how structures similar to Ukraine's would perform in harsh northern conditions, in order to create a barrier that would hinder the advance of the Russian army.

A large-scale reform of the army

The country is currently reorganizing its army, a process that will last until the end of the 2030s and will affect equipment, the structure of the armed forces, and combat capabilities. Finland's Ministry of Defence stated that no less funding will be allocated to modernizing the ground forces than to the current strategic programs for the navy and air force combined. The total funding for these programs amounts to €11.6 billion.

Context of military readiness in the region

Against the backdrop of Finland's plans to strengthen its defense, the region is also discussing the problem of other armies' readiness for a serious conflict. Earlier, the President of the Czech Republic admitted that his country's army is not prepared for such challenges, which underscores the relevance of armed forces modernization issues in Central and Northern Europe.