Finland participates in a NATO exercise for the first time.

The Finnish and Swedish Defense Forces will take part in the Nordic military exercise "Nordic Response 24," led by Norway, as announced by the Finnish Ministry of Defense. Scheduled from March 4 to 15, 2024, the exercise will mobilize approximately 4,100 Finnish soldiers and 700 vehicles. Air operations will mainly focus on Western Lapland, though they will extend across the northern regions of Norway, Sweden, and Finland.
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The"Nordic Response 24" exercise will mobilize approximately 4,100 Finnish soldiers and 700 vehicles. (Picture source Finnish Defence Forces )

Authorities from the three countries have collaborated to ensure smooth traffic flow and minimize the impact of the exercise. In addition to Finnish forces, the exercise will see the participation of 3,000 Swedish soldiers, 450 French, and about 50 British troops moving and training in Finland.

The exercise is expected to significantly affect traffic, especially towards Enontekiö and on the specified march routes, with potential traffic congestion particularly during movements to and from training areas. Authorities have anticipated an increase in traffic volume and advise planning extra time for travel and selecting routes accordingly.

The Finnish and Swedish armies will form a division operating in the Enontekiö area and moving towards Norway. The training force will comprise approximately 2,500 personnel, including 350 staff members, 1,060 conscripts, and 1,120 reservists.

The Air Force will participate with 12 F/A-18 Hornet multi-role fighters and about 250 personnel, based in Rovaniemi and at the Andøya base in Norway.

"Nordic Response 24" is the most significant exercise of the year for the Finnish Defense Forces, part of NATO's "Steadfast Defender 24" exercise series, aimed at enhancing the alliance's capability to conduct joint defensive operations in Arctic conditions. This exercise, NATO's largest in decades, demonstrates the commitment and resolve to defend the alliance's territory. As a new member, Finland strengthens its integration into NATO and its ability to participate in joint operations in the Nordic region.The exercice is comprehensive military exercise on land, at sea, and in the air, bringing together approximately 20,000 soldiers from 14 countries.

The potential NATO membership of Nordic countries, particularly Finland and Sweden, has been seen as a significant strategic pivot in response to growing tensions with Russia. This northern expansion aims to bolster the collective security of the alliance in a region geographically close to Russia. However, the accession process has faced hurdles, particularly from Turkey, which has raised concerns and imposed conditions, leading to only Norway joining the organization for now. Sweden remains an official invitee pending full ratification of the accession protocol by all alliance members.

Defense News February 2024