Finland’s government has proposed raising defense spending from $6.8 billion in 2025 to $11.5 billion by 2032, reaching 3.3% of GDP and exceeding NATO’s 2% guideline. Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen cited unpredictable security risks and the possibility of large-scale conflicts as key reasons for the increase. An updated Defense Report, presented to the Eduskunta on December 19, outlined threats from Russia as a major concern. Finland’s defense budget has seen significant growth since 2020, including an $8.8 billion acquisition of 64 Lockheed Martin F-35A fighters. These measures underscore Finland’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities in response to evolving security challenges.
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US Air Force F-35s Touch Down on a Highway in Finland for ‘Historic’ Landing
- Veiko Lukmann
- 04/09/2024
- 0
On September 4, 2024, two U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II jets landed on a Finnish highway, marking the first time fifth-generation American aircraft operated from a road in Europe. This was part of the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept, aimed at enhancing NATO’s ability to operate from non-traditional airfields in response to growing global threats. The exercise took place during Finland’s annual Baana exercise, showcasing U.S. and NATO adaptability in joint operations. Finland, which regularly trains its pilots to land on highways, recently joined NATO and plans to replace its F/A-18 fleet with 64 F-35s. The U.S. and NATO […]
USAF Releases Footage Of F-35A Roadway Landing In Finland During NATO Exercise
- Veiko Lukmann
- 14/10/2024
- 0
The U.S. Air Force has released cockpit footage of a Lockheed Martin F-35A stealth fighter landing on a roadway in Finland during NATO’s Baana 2024 exercises. Two F-35As from the USAF’s 48th Fighter Wing, stationed in the UK, landed on a designated roadway near Ranua, Finland, marking the first roadway landing of a U.S.-owned fifth-generation fighter in Europe. The footage captures the jets performing landings, touch-and-go maneuvers, and takeoffs, showcasing the USAF’s Agile Combat Employment (ACE) strategy. This approach aims to mitigate risks associated with large air bases in potential conflict zones by enabling operations from dispersed and unconventional locations. […]
Sweden Joins NATO Efforts to Bolster Baltic Sea Security
- Veiko Lukmann
- 15/01/2025
- 0
Sweden has pledged to support NATO’s enhanced naval presence in the Baltic Sea by contributing up to three warships, one ASC 890 surveillance aircraft, and four coast guard ships. This commitment follows NATO’s recent decision to strengthen its naval posture in response to increased Russian activities in the region. Finnish media report that NATO may deploy up to ten warships to protect critical underwater infrastructure. Meanwhile, Estonia’s navy has intensified patrols in the Gulf of Finland as Finland investigates suspected sabotage of the Estlink 2 submarine cable, allegedly involving Russia’s ‘shadow fleet.’ Sweden’s participation underscores its commitment to regional security […]