Security exercises scheduled for Kuopio and Mikkeli in Finland

Large-scale security and defense exercises are scheduled to take place in the South Savo region of Finland.

In Kuopio, the Suojaan 2026 civil defense exercise will involve over 2,000 participants, including students from Savonia University of Applied Sciences, Savon ammattiopisto, and Luovi. The drill, involving over 30 organizations, will utilize the Luola underground facility to practice protecting large crowds and coordinating authorities during societal disruptions. The exercise is intended to test civil protection readiness and does not indicate an immediate threat.

Simultaneously, the Finnish Defence Forces will conduct the Karelian Stronghold 26 local defense exercise in the Mikkeli area from August 31 to September 4. This drill involves approximately 800 personnel and 120 vehicles, including tracked tanks, to develop skills in operating within built environments and securing critical infrastructure. The exercise will include participation from the United States Virginia National Guard.