As Russia’s aggressive moves loom over Europe, Finland’s people are embracing new methods of self-defense. The Nordic nation, long known for its strong military capabilities, is witnessing a surge in firearms training, national defense interest, and civil preparedness. This shift, driven by the growing threat of Russian expansionism, is reshaping how Finns approach their security.
In this blog post, I’ll dive into how Finland is rallying to strengthen its national self-defense. From shooting ranges to civil defense shelters, here’s how the Finnish population is taking matters into their own hands to safeguard their future.
Why Finland Is Embracing Self-Defense Like Never Before
Recent geopolitical tensions have made it clear: Finland cannot afford to be complacent. The war in Ukraine, instigated by Russia, has heightened fears about regional security, especially in Finland, which shares an 830-mile border with its eastern neighbour. In response, Finnish citizens are increasingly looking to enhance their personal and collective defense strategies.
The growing popularity of firearms training is one of the most visible signs of this shift. People who once viewed weapons training as a niche activity are now flocking to shooting ranges in unprecedented numbers. The aim? To acquire the skills necessary to defend themselves if the unthinkable were to happen.
The Rise of Finland’s Shooting Ranges
The booming interest in shooting ranges is a reflection of Finland’s evolving approach to self-defense. The Vantaa Reservist Association, located in Kerava just north of Helsinki, has seen membership more than double over the past two years. The association’s chairman, Antti Kettunen, notes that many Finns now feel the need to arm themselves, driven by the memory of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. As Kettunen puts it, “The wind has changed. Now it’s blowing from the east.”
This sentiment is not isolated to Kerava. Nationally, there’s been a marked increase in gun range memberships, with the Finnish government responding by expanding the number of shooting facilities across the country. The government has announced plans to open over 300 new ranges, a significant increase from the 670 currently in operation. This shows how seriously Finland is taking its security strategy in a world that feels more unstable by the day.
NATO Membership: A New Chapter in Finland’s Defense
In 2023, Finland officially joined NATO as its 31st member. This move marked a pivotal shift in the country’s defense strategy, cementing its place within the broader Western alliance. The decision followed months of escalating tensions in Europe, particularly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Sweden, Finland’s neighbour, followed suit, applying for NATO membership shortly after.
While NATO membership enhances Finland’s military capabilities, the country is also focusing on boosting its civil defense. With more than 50,000 Cold War-era civil defense shelters scattered across the nation, Finland is well-equipped to protect its citizens in times of crisis. These shelters could accommodate roughly 85% of the Finnish population, a remarkable legacy from the country’s military history.
Civil Defence: Preparing for the Worst
Though Finland’s membership in NATO strengthens its position in the alliance, there’s a strong national push to maintain self-reliance. The Finnish government has long advocated for comprehensive civil defense strategies, and this focus has been reinforced by the Russian threat.
In a recent statement, Tomi Rask from Helsinki Rescue Services emphasised that Finland is prepared for any potential threat. “We know that all of our neighbours have the capability of harming us, and we think that we need to prepare.”
The Finnish civil defense system includes an extensive network of shelters, which remain operational and are regularly maintained. This infrastructure is critical not only in times of war but also during natural disasters, underscoring Finland’s commitment to protecting its citizens in all scenarios.
Training the New Wave of Defenders
The demand for military training in Finland has skyrocketed in recent months. According to the National Defense Training Association, the country hosted a collective total of 120,000 training days this year—a massive increase compared to just three years ago. Much of this surge can be attributed to a broader cultural shift, with many Finns motivated by a desire to contribute to the nation’s defense efforts.
The National Reservists Association, a group comprising about 90% military reservists and the remainder hobbyists, has grown by more than two-thirds since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In cities like Helsinki and Kerava, military reservists and firearm hobbyists regularly meet to practice their skills in simulated war environments. With an ever-growing sense of urgency, these groups are training not just for sport but for potential conflict.
A Nation That Knows How to Fight
Finland’s history with Russia has shaped the nation’s military identity. After gaining independence from the Russian Empire in 1917, Finland fought fiercely to maintain its sovereignty, most notably in the Winter War of 1939–1940. Despite being vastly outnumbered, Finland repelled the Soviet invasion, cementing its reputation for resilience.
This historical legacy still resonates deeply within Finnish society. Kettunen, whose association teaches civilians how to shoot, likens firearms training to learning how to swim. Both require preparation and practice, as “when you need to know how to shoot or swim, and you don’t, it’s too late.”
The Impact of Finland’s Self-Defense Movement
The shift towards self-defense in Finland is not just about arming the population. It’s about fostering a sense of community, responsibility, and preparedness. Many Finns are embracing this new era of civil defense as a means to safeguard their country and way of life, with a focus on readiness rather than fear.
While some see this as a reaction to external threats, others view it as a reaffirmation of national identity. As one member of the Vantaa Reservist Association put it, “Some people do this just for fun. But many are motivated by our eastern neighbour.”
Conclusion: The Changing Landscape of Finnish Security
As Finland faces the ever-present threat of Russian aggression, its citizens are stepping up to ensure their nation’s security. From shooting ranges to civil defense shelters, the Finnish people are preparing for what might come, just as they have throughout their history. In a world where uncertainty seems to be the only constant, Finland is taking proactive steps to defend its future.
The winds may have shifted, but Finland is ready.
