The (R)evolution in Finnish Deterrence

This chapter seeks to highlight that while Finland adds considerably to the length of the shared border between NATO and Russia, the net effect of Finland joining NATO is overall positive for both the ally and the Alliance. In terms of its contribution to allied deterrence and defence, Finland punches above its weight as a nation of 5.5 million inhabitants. Finland has a tradition of independently planning and carrying out deterrence measures as part of its foreign and security policy for decades and has built a resilient society able to respond to a variety of crises. However, the outlook of national deterrence and defence has to evolve to better fit an alliance-wide policy. Deterrence is never “ready” and new challenges require active exploration of new solutions. Finland will continue to uphold and strengthen its national measures and seek to be an active, burden-sharing ally, contributing to the overall security and stability of the Alliance.