Maintaining defence readiness and repelling attacks with the support of NATO

Under normal circumstances, the national territory is monitored, territorial violations are prevented, and readiness is maintained to ensure the efficient execution of operations. If necessary, support can be obtained from NATO.

In the event of disruptions, the Defence Forces increase command readiness, enhance surveillance, protect targets, provide executive assistance to other authorities, and maintain situational awareness that also supports NATO.

Responding to a military threat involves raising readiness by allocating additional powers and re-sources, and by preparing to deploy the troops required to counter the threat. Where necessary, the work is supported by NATO. The objective is to form a credible deterrence and defence against the threat or use of military force against Finland. These actions form part of the overall foreign, security, and defence policy and are proportionate to developments in the security environment.

Repelling attacks against Finland is based on military national defence and the joint defence capability of the Alliance, supported by resources from across society. Defence readiness and the use of forces are adjusted as required by the prevailing threat and operational needs.

The vital functions of society are safeguarded, and militarily important targets and functions are protected together with other authorities. The attacker is prevented from entering areas essential to the country’s functioning or from influencing critical national functions.

NATO’s activities are planned to support national defence. Areas and targets that are important for own operations are held under all circumstances through the Army’s defensive combat. Air defence prevents the aggressor from achieving air superiority and protects society’s vital functions and Finland’s own forces. The task of maritime defence is to repel attacks originating from the sea and to secure sea lines of communication. Attacks are repelled, and the attacker is defeated through joint operations, if necessary.