Finland, Sweden deepen defence ties amid drone threats

Finland and Sweden are set to deepen their defence cooperation by jointly strengthening Finland’s territorial surveillance and ability to protect its territorial integrity, in support of NATO’s deterrence and defence posture.

The two countries said they would enhance Finland’s capabilities to detect and counter drones, complementing ongoing national measures introduced in response to recent drone incursions linked to Russia’s war against Ukraine.

The initiative underscores Helsinki and Stockholm’s growing ability to coordinate their defence efforts and assume greater responsibility for security in the region and along NATO’s eastern flank.

Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen said the expanded cooperation builds on longstanding bilateral and Nordic defence ties.

“Air and maritime cooperation has already been an integral part of our bilateral and Nordic cooperation, so it is natural to move forward to cooperate on territorial surveillance and protection of territorial integrity, fully in line with the work done in NATO. By working together, we are strengthening NATO deterrence and defence,” Häkkänen said.

Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson emphasized the importance of collective defence following the two countries’ accession to NATO.

“As members of NATO, collective defence is a core element of our cooperation. As Allies, we have a common view on ensuring strong and capable deterrence and defence in our region and on the eastern flank. We are constantly developing our ability to act together with our Allies, reviewing available means for effective contributions,” Jonson said.

The expanded cooperation is expected to further strengthen Finland’s air and maritime surveillance capabilities while enhancing the security posture of NATO’s northern region and eastern flank.

By Vafa Guliyeva