The Largest NATO Artillery Exercises in Finland’s Arctic Send a Clear Message
Against the backdrop of rising tensions with Russia over its war in Ukraine, thousands of NATO soldiers are currently engaged in large-scale artillery exercises in Finland’s Arctic region. The exercises, which involve troops from the United States, Sweden, the United Kingdom, France, and other NATO members, are seen as a demonstration of military unity and readiness.
A Message to Russia
The sound of cannon fire and rocket artillery reverberates across the snowy, hilly landscape of Lapland as approximately 3,600 soldiers participate in live fire drills throughout November. This marks NATO’s largest artillery exercise ever held in Europe, known as Dynamic Front 25. The exercise also includes drills in Estonia, Germany, Romania, and Poland, with a total of around 5,000 soldiers taking part.
Joel Linnainmaki, a researcher at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, believes that these massive exercises are a clear message to Russia, especially considering Finland’s 1,340-kilometer border with the country. The exercises aim to show Russia and other nations that NATO is united and capable of defending its members.
Training and Interoperability
Finland’s decision to join NATO last year has led to the first large-scale maneuvers in the country since then. The move was made following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, causing tensions between Finland and Moscow. The Dynamic Front 25 exercise in Finland focuses on training and developing interoperability within NATO’s artillery units, as well as preparing troops for harsh Arctic conditions.
Colonel Janne Makitalo, the exercise director, emphasized the importance of training together and developing assets. He highlighted the significance of artillery in warfare, particularly in light of the combat experiences in Ukraine. Makitalo dismissed claims that NATO’s activities could provoke Moscow, stating that it is not a show of force but rather a demonstration of readiness.
Unique Training Ground
The exercises take place in the hilly Rovajarvi area, Europe’s largest firing range and training area, covering over 1,000 square kilometers. Troops camp in the snow-covered terrain, facing extreme weather conditions with temperatures dropping below minus 20 degrees Celsius. The Finnish defense forces are renowned for their training and preparation for harsh winter environments.
Lieutenant Antti-Matti Puisto, a firing platoon leader, emphasized the importance of staying warm and dry in such conditions. Captain Romain, a French unit commander, highlighted the need for interoperability with NATO allies during artillery fire drills. Conscript and sergeant Olli Myllymaki expressed pride in participating in the exercises alongside different nations.
Conclusion
The ongoing NATO artillery exercises in Finland’s Arctic serve as a powerful display of military unity and readiness in the face of escalating tensions with Russia. As troops from various NATO members come together to train and enhance interoperability, the message is clear: the alliance is prepared to defend its members and respond to any threats.
FAQ
What is the purpose of NATO’s artillery exercises in Finland?
The exercises aim to demonstrate military unity, readiness, and interoperability among NATO members, while also sending a message to Russia regarding the alliance’s capabilities.
How are Finnish troops prepared for harsh Arctic conditions?
The Finnish defense forces are well-trained and equipped for extreme winter environments, with troops wearing multiple layers of clothing and focusing on keeping encampments dry and warm.