Finland's Frontline Readiness: A NATO Ally's Confidence

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Finnish President Alexander Stubb delivered a clear message regarding national defense: Finland is prepared for a potential Russian attack. The statement, made on Wednesday, underscores the country's strategic positioning on NATO's front line.

Stubb's confidence stems from a defense architecture specifically designed with Russia in mind. He highlighted capabilities that distinguish Finland from many other NATO members, emphasizing that readiness extends beyond the battlefield and into civilian life.

Finland's military readiness is defined by its ability to mobilize forces quickly and its substantial firepower. President Stubb noted that the country can deploy 280,000 soldiers within weeks, a direct result of its mandatory conscription system.

This personnel advantage is supported by heavy artillery. Stubb stated that Finland possesses the biggest artillery in Europe, sharing this distinction with Poland. The arsenal includes long-range missiles covering land, sea, and air domains.

"We have the biggest artillery in Europe together with Poland. We have long-range missiles, land, sea, and air."

He humorously clarified the intent behind this procurement, noting, "We don't have this because we're worried about Stockholm," referring to neighboring Sweden.

Finland's air capabilities are a cornerstone of its defense strategy, featuring a mix of legacy and next-generation aircraft. The fleet currently includes 62 F-18s and is bolstered by a recent order for 64 F-35s.

These aircraft are manufactured by US companies, specifically Boeing and Lockheed Martin. Consequently, maintaining operational status requires a degree of American support. Stubb addressed this dependency directly, acknowledging that the planes do not fly without US involvement.

"Your next question is going to be, do they fly without Americans? No, they don't. But do we trust that they will continue to fly because it's in the interest of America to do so? Yes."

Despite geopolitical tensions, Stubb remains optimistic that this support will persist, viewing it as mutually beneficial.

Finland's defense posture is not limited to military assets; it is deeply integrated into civilian infrastructure. Stubb emphasized that winning conflicts requires preparation at home, a philosophy reflected in the country's extensive safety measures.

The nation maintains civilian shelters capable of accommodating 4.4 million people. Furthermore, Finland has established a comprehensive security of supply system designed to prevent critical shortages.

• Food supplies secured against disruption
• Energy reserves maintained for stability
• Electricity grid protections in place

Stubb described this holistic approach as a capability that many European states need to develop, noting that "you fight wars on the battlefield, but you win them at home."

Finland joined NATO in 2022 following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, positioning itself as one of the alliance's newest and most vigilant members. Stubb expressed strong confidence in the resilience of the alliance despite recent tensions involving the US and Denmark over Greenland.

When asked if Europe needs the potential to defend itself against the United States, Stubb dismissed the hypothetical. He argued that the focus should remain on the current reality and the strengthening of the alliance.

"I think actually we're in the process of creating a stronger NATO than we have seen since the end of the Cold War."

Regarding European self-defense capabilities, Stubb was unequivocal, stating, "Can Europe defend itself? My answer is unequivocally, yes." Finland's unique position, sharing an 800-mile border with Russia and a history of conflict, provides it with an edge that informs this confidence.

Finland's strategic approach to defense combines rapid military mobilization with deep civilian resilience. The country's ability to field a massive army and maintain heavy artillery positions it as a formidable force on NATO's eastern flank.

While dependent on US technology for its air force, the Finnish leadership trusts in the strategic alignment of the alliance. As tensions in Europe persist, Finland's comprehensive preparedness—both military and civilian—serves as a model for regional security.

The nation remains on guard, leveraging its historical experience and modern capabilities to ensure stability in the region.