Finnish Navy collaborates with United States Marine Corps for major autumn exercises along southern coastline

Next week, the Finnish Navy will collaborate with the United States Marine Corps to conduct training drills along Finland’s southern coastline. From November 18 to 29, the presence of military personnel will be noticeable around the clock.

This major autumn exercise will involve around 4,000 troops, with participation from not only the Navy but also the Air Force, Army, Border Guard, and various allied forces. Troops from the United States, France, and nearly all countries bordering the Baltic Sea, including Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, are also taking part in the exercises.

According to Commodore Marko Laaksonen, the varied weather conditions, which may shift from snowy to stormy, are advantageous for the training. He believes these unique circumstances will effectively enhance their readiness.

The exercises will primarily focus on maritime operations in the area between Helsinki and Kotka, although some activities will take place near Kymi Airport in Kotka. The drill will feature around 30 combat vessels, support ships, transport boats, as well as coastal and land forces. Additionally, aircraft including fighter jets, helicopters, and surveillance planes from the United States and France will be visible in the skies.

Starting from November 15, several allied combat vessels will begin arriving in Turku in preparation for the exercises.