Finland to hold Metso 26 exercises 60 km from the Russian border

The scale of the exercises near the border

Finland will hold the Metso 26 military exercises near the Russian border, involving almost two thousand servicemen. RIA Novosti reported this, citing data on the maneuvers; the outlet Gazeta.Ru also covered details of the exercises. The maneuvers will last until November 13 in the eastern regions of the country between Kajaani and Sotkamo. The municipality of Sotkamo is located approximately 60 kilometers from the Russian border.

What the military is practicing

About 1,800 servicemen and 370 pieces of equipment are involved in the maneuvers, including army aviation and unmanned aerial vehicles. According to the exercise plan, the military is practicing offensive, deterrence and defensive operations, as well as coordination between different levels of command and branches of the armed forces.

Context: army reform and border reinforcement

The exercises are taking place against the backdrop of broader changes in the Finnish army. On November 7 it was reportedthat Finland is studying Ukraine's experience and considering the creation of anti-tank barriers along the border with Russia. In addition, the country is reorganizing its ground forces, a process that will last until the end of the 2030s and will affect equipment, the structure of the armed forces and combat capability. The Finnish Ministry of Defense stated that no less money will be spent on modernizing the ground forces than on the current strategic programs for the navy and air force combined; the total funding for these programs amounts to €11.6 billion ($13 billion). It was also previously reportedthat Finland will launch drone production for the Ukrainian armed forces.