The Finnish Defence Forces and NATO’s support for military defence

 The Finnish Defence Forces secure Finland’s independence, its territorial integrity and the livelihood and basic rights of its population, in accordance with the objectives of security policy.

The Finnish Defence Forces are responsible for the implementation of military national defence.

Support for military defence through NATO membership:

• Due to NATO membership, Finland is part of NATO’s collective defence and is therefore within the scope of NATO’s security guarantees. This strengthens the preventive effect of military defence.
• NATO membership brings military capabilities that Finland, alone, could not afford to acquire. These include reconnaissance, air surveillance (AWACS), space and submarine capabilities.
• However, the importance of national defence is not diminished. The core task of the Finnish Defence Forces is to defend the country militarily. General conscription will also remain in place as a member of NATO.
• As a member of NATO, Finland is also preparing for the military defence of its allies.