Defence

The purpose of Finland’s national defence is to guarantee the country’s independence. National defence is also intended to secure citizens’ means of making their living and ensure safety against outside threats such as threats by other states. The aim of defence capability is to prevent threats of military force or military action being used against Finland.

Defence policy defines how Finland’s military defence is organised. The key issues are the tasks and resources of military defence, the principles of defence solutions and legislation.

The Defence Forces are in charge of Finland’s military readiness and carrying out the necessary planning. They are also responsible for territorial surveillance and defending territorial integrity and independence.

The Supreme Commander of the Defence Forces is the President of Finland. The Chief of Defence is in charge of the immediate leadership and supervision of the Defence Forces and is assisted by the Defence Staff. In addition to the Defence Staff, the Defence Forces comprise the army, navy and air force together with other bodies that come under the Defence Staff.