“Arctic Artillery Training Shapes Finnish Defense Strategy”

Venturing north is the key to discovering Western Europe’s largest artillery practice ground. Rovajärvi, situated just above the Arctic Circle near Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland, serves as the setting where young recruits conclude their artillery training amidst the cold of late May. Equipped with thick gloves and neck warmers, the soldiers engage with howitzers akin to those utilized in recent European conflicts.

Finnish conscript Iivari Luukari, extensively trained on these artillery pieces, reflects on the necessity of preparing for worst-case scenarios, drawing parallels to past conflicts like that in Ukraine. Despite this, Luukari remains optimistic about Finland’s future without impending wars.

The ethos of “comprehensive security” prevails in Finland, fostering a societal mindset that emphasizes collective responsibility in safeguarding the nation. This principle underpins all aspects of Finnish life, from individual citizens to governmental entities, as reiterated by Janne Kuusela, a key figure in Finland’s defence policy administration.

While the military serves as the primary defense line, Finland’s broader approach encompasses readiness across industries and households, ensuring self-sufficiency in times of crisis. This holistic preparedness stems from Finland’s historical experiences, notably the Winter War of 1939 where Finland repelled an invasion by Soviet Russia.

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NATO’s secretary general has warned Russia could launch an attack on the alliance within the next five years. What can Canada learn from its two newest NATO allies, Finland and Sweden, about preparing for what could be ahead? CBC’s Emma Godmere travelled to the two Nordic countries to see and hear how Finns and Swedes are steeling themselves for whatever the future may bring.