Arctic military build-up brings foreign troops to NATO member Finland

Sub: IR

Sec: Int groupings

Context:

Arctic Forge 25 is a S. led military exercise that began on February 14 and runs until February 28.
It takes place near Finland’s border with Russia, involving approximately 900 troops from Finland, the United States, and Canada.

Details:

The exercise focuses on Arctic warfare, enhancing the readiness and survival skills of NATO forces in response to potential conflicts in the Arctic region.
The exercise occurs in the Sodankylä region of Finland, about 130 kilometres from the Russian border. This area is known for its harsh winter conditions, where temperatures typically drop to -20°C during this time of year.

Survival and Combat Techniques:

Finnish conscripts wear white and grey winter fatigues and ski through snow-covered forests to practice camouflage techniques, dragging small pine trees to simulate the presence of tanks.
Troops must master survival skills, particularly in managing the dangers of freezing temperatures, such as hypothermia. Training includes how to warm up quickly and safely, as well as preparing for potential accidents like falling into frozen lakes or swamps.

Strategic Importance of the Region:

The exercise is seen as crucial for NATO allies as tensions rise in the Arctic due to the increasing interest of Russia and China in the area.
Finland shares a 1,340-kilometer border with Russia and joined NATO in 2023, ending decades of military non-alignment. Finland also signed a bilateral defence pact with the U.S. last year, further strengthening defence cooperation.
Finland’s military collaboration with NATO has intensified since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with NATO’s Forward Land Forces stationed in Finland for training purposes.

About Finland:

Finland is a Nordic country in Northern Europe.
It borders Sweden to the northwest, Norway to the north, and Russia to the east, with the Gulf of Bothnia to the west and the Gulf of Finland to the south.