Finnish defence forces detail methods for neutralising explosive-laden drones

The Finnish Defence Forces use controlled detonations, robotic inspection, and protective barriers to safely disable explosive devices like drones found in the field, a military engineering expert told national broadcaster Yle.

After police secure the area around a suspicious object—such as the drone recently discovered in Kouvola, southeastern Finland—the Defence Forces deploy specialists to assess the threat. “We aim to identify the device as precisely as possible,” said Riku Mikkonen, an engineering inspector with the Finnish Army. Teams determine the type of explosive, its detonation system, and the potential blast radius using tools like robots or drones to avoid direct exposure.

The neutralisation method depends on the device and location. Options include relocating and destroying it in a secure area, disarming it on-site, or using controlled detonation with a clearance charge. “The most common approach is a controlled explosion using a clearance charge,” Mikkonen explained. Protective structures, such as sandbag walls, may be erected to contain debris.

Mikkonen warned civilians never to touch or approach suspicious objects, as some explosives may have self-destruct mechanisms triggered by movement or magnetic changes. “The first step is always to notify police,” he said, advising bystanders to mark the location and prevent others from entering the area if possible.

The procedures described apply to peacetime operations. “Wartime demining on a battlefield may follow different protocols,” Mikkonen noted.

Finnish authorities have investigated multiple drone incidents in recent days, including two crashes in southeastern Finland. Police confirmed one drone found in Parikkala was of foreign origin.