Finland to host large-scale international military exercises in May

Finland’s Kainuu Brigade will lead an unusually large series of combat exercises in May, involving 4,500 troops from Finland and six allied nations, reports national broadcaster Yle.

The exercises, primarily held at the Vuosango training area in Kuhmo and its surroundings, will include forces from the US, UK, Poland, Italy, Hungary, and France. Some drills will also take place in Kajaani.

Local residents may notice increased military activity, including road convoys and helicopter movements, as troops are deployed across the region.

The month-long training begins with Finnish artillery and air force exercises, followed by two major phases. The first, Metso 126, runs from mid-May with around 1,500 participants, including Finnish conscripts, border guards, and British infantry. This prepares troops for the larger Northern Star 26 exercise later in the month.

The second phase, Saber Strike 26, starts on May 11 and includes the Rock Sisu drill, where allied forces—without Finnish participation—will test operational independence in Kainuu for the first time. US, UK, Italian, Hungarian, and Polish troops will handle logistics and combat scenarios alone before Finnish forces join in the final Northern Star 26 exercise, marking the culmination of May’s training.

The exercises aim to strengthen Finland’s ground defence capabilities in the Kainuu region.