Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Finland and Sweden swiftly applied for NATO membership. Shortly after, both countries were admitted into the alliance, and Finland and Sweden have since become two of its most capable and responsible members.
Prior to its accession into NATO, Finland maintained military non-alignment, separate from formal military alliance, in an effort to maintain neutrality. Public opinion shifted drastically against neutrality and in favor of NATO membership after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which is perhaps unsurprising considering that Finland’s shared border with Russia spans over 800 miles. A poll from 2023, right after its accession into NATO, showed Finland’s membership in the alliance had an 82% approval rating from its citizens.
Outside of NATO, Finland remains one of Europe’s most powerful militaries. The Finnish Ministry of Defense, led by Minister of Defense Antti Häkkänen, has allocated 6.5 billion euros (approximately $7.5 billion USD) for its 2025 defense budget. Although significant as is, this number is projected to increase in the coming years. Helsinki plans to increase its defense spending to a minimum of 3% of its gross domestic product over the next four years and work its way up to 5% by 2032.
Currently, Finland is in the process of updating its equipment to further enhance its military readiness. This year, Finland allocated 1.9 billion euros (approximately $2.2 billion USD) to purchase 64 F-35A fighter jets to replace its older F-18s.
Additionally, Finland is working to modernize its land forces to enhance weapons systems and force structures should a protracted conflict occur. The Finnish Army has outlined its plan to continue to advance its military in the 2030s, including, but not limited to, enhanced research and development on unmanned and autonomous systems.
In addition to its physical equipment, the country’s military strategy has also positioned Finland with a successful and strong fighting force. The personnel numbers within its military are staggering because of universal conscription. Every male in Finland is required to serve a set term in the military after turning 18. Although not required for women, it is optional and many choose to do so.
After completing their required service, citizens become reservists until the age of 60. As a result, Finland’s capable personnel are significant. Currently, the country can mobilize approximately 280,000 troops for service in wartime, and its reserve consists of 900,000.
Finland also utilizes its non-military sectors for defense efforts. It is common for the country’s energy, health, and other companies to contribute in some way to the country’s wartime efforts. Civilians may also undergo training to defend critical infrastructure through contingency planning in case of attack.
Outside of its domestic strategy, Finland maintains friendly relations and a formal alliance with the United States. Prior to its accession into NATO, Finland and the U.S. have had longstanding relations dating back to 1994. More recently, the Finnish government has procured significant military equipment from the U.S., including missile systems with various ranges, launch locations, and targets, in addition to its significant F-35A purchase. In total, these foreign military sales between both countries amount to $13.6 billion USD in active government-to-government sales.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb maintains friendly relations with President Donald Trump and is widely seen as having one of the best relationships with the U.S. president of any leader in Europe. The two have worked together on various mutually beneficial policies, including the Ice Pact. The Ice Pact is an effort between the U.S., Canada, and Finland to enhance shipbuilding, under which Finland will help build icebreakers for the U.S. coast for Arctic operations.
Finland’s increased defense spending, strong force posture and capabilities, and close security cooperation with the U.S. all make it one of the most effective and responsible members of NATO. Finland’s contributions to NATO have been significant, especially considering how new it is to the alliance, and should serve as an example to other European countries.
