Members of 3rd Battalion, The Rifles signalled their solidarity with some of Nato’s newest troops during Exercise Northern Axe.
One of the biggest drills since Finland joined the alliance in 2023 – involving 3,000 personnel and 600 vehicles – the training was staged in the icy wilderness of Vuosanka, some 30 miles from the border with Russia.
Serials included live-fire attacks and defensive tactics – all while dealing with freezing temperatures and challenging terrain, an opportunity the British contingent appreciated.
“Being based in the UK, we don’t often get the chance to practise this, so the Finns have been giving us some pointers,” said Rfn James Whittingham.
“They’re the professionals when it comes to cold weather and have also helped us with our skiing skills.”
Finland is one of the few European countries to retain conscription.
Its Kainuu Brigade trains two cohorts of recruits every year.
Maj Kari Sukkonen said Finnish reservists were highly motivated to defend their country.
“We know the threat is higher than it used to be, so we have a lot of people willing to come and refresh their skills,” he added.
