Finland and Estonia evaluate defense measures against airspace threats

Finland and Estonia are evaluating defense measures to address potential airspace threats and the rise of fast-moving, jet-powered drones.

In Finland, Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen addressed recent comments by former Prime Minister Sanna Marin, who suggested shooting down Russian aircraft that violate Finnish airspace. Häkkänen clarified that the military follows established procedures, assessing each situation individually to apply proportionate force based on the nature of the threat. This follows reports of unmanned aerial vehicles being discovered on Finnish territory earlier this year.

Meanwhile, Estonia’s Defense Minister Martin Herem is considering the acquisition of light jet aircraft to counter Russian jet-powered attack drones. These drones, which can exceed speeds of 400 kilometers per hour, have become a significant challenge in the region. Herem noted that while Estonia currently relies on NATO air-policing rotations, air-to-air weapons may be the most effective countermeasure. Other options under consideration include computer-controlled cannons, heavy machine guns, and interceptor drones.