The aim is to build a multi-layered counter-drone system, including a fixed surveillance system on the eastern border and the coast, as well as mobile counter-drone capabilities nationwide.
The government aims to bolster Finland’s anti-drone capabilities, with extra funding for the Border Guard and police in the supplementary budget.
An additional 50 million euros will be allocated to strengthen counter-drone operations, Interior Minister Mari Rantanen (Finns) said in a statement on Tuesday.
Cabinet ministers agreed on the extra funding during last week’s framework budget negotiations. It’s expected to be confirmed in supplementary budget talks in late May.
“Improving the ability of the Border Guard and the police to detect and counter drones is an important part of our work to strengthen Finland’s drone defence. Along with defence, the government will make significant investments aimed at improving the capabilities of the internal security authorities,” Rantanen said in the release.
Of the 50 million euros, 44 million will be earmarked for the Border Guard to enhance its anti-drone capabilities, including detection, identification and closer cooperation with other authorities.
Ukraine apologises for stray drones
According to the Interior Ministry, the aim is to build a comprehensive, multi-layered counter-drone system, consisting of a “fixed surveillance and effect system” on the eastern border and along Finland’s 40,000km-long coastline, as well as mobile counter-drone capabilities nationwide.
Finnish police meanwhile are to receive approximately six million euros to boost technical detection and location of unmanned aircraft.
Since March, at least four drones have struck southeast Finland, all apparently stray Ukrainian aircraft launched at Russian oil ports across the Gulf of Finland. No serious injuries or damage has been reported, and Kyiv has issued an apology.
Earlier this month, the parliamentary finance committee said that Finland is applying for 35 million euros in additional EU funding for drone defence equipment.
