Principles of Finland’s military defence

  • The core task of the military defense is to defend Finland.
  • Finland is part of NATO’s collective defence.
  • The security guarantees supplied by NATO strengthen the preventive effect of Finland’s defence.
  • NATO membership brings new defence capabilities.
  • However, the need for a strong national defence will not diminish.
  • The defence system is designed to withstand an armed attack aimed at taking over the country.
  • Finland’s military defence covers the whole country thanks, among other things, to Finland’s trained reserve.
  • The Finnish Border Guard participates in national defence in cooperation with the Finnish Defence Forces.

NATO and Finnish flags in front of the foreign ministry after signing membership.

Military national defence is constantly being developed to respond to changing threats. Finland’s national defence considers, among other things, the development of the security situation in neighboring areas, and threats related to terrorism and the environment.

Preparing for a military attack and ensuring territorial integrity will continue to be important parts of Finland’s defence solution.