NATO Deploys Troops Near the Russian Border, Project Launches in Lapland
In 2025, NATO will open a new Forward Land Forces unit in Lapland. The project involves Finland, Sweden, Denmark, France, Iceland, Norway, and the United Kingdom.
Photo: Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, CC BY 2.0
Finland is preparing to host NATO Forward Land Forces (FLF) as part of strengthening the Alliance's northern flank defense.
This was officially announced during a working dinner of NATO defense ministers on June 24, 2025. The new unit will be stationed in the Rovaniemi and Sodankylä areas, near the Russian border.
Finland will host the base, and Sweden will take on the lead coordination role. Denmark, France, Iceland, Norway, and the United Kingdom have also joined the initiative — the countries are ready to provide troops and resources to strengthen Arctic security.
“This is a strong signal of Alliance unity and Europe's readiness to take responsibility,” said Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen.
In peacetime, international units will conduct joint exercises with the Finnish army. In case of escalation, the contingent can be rapidly reinforced to brigade level.
The new base will become a key element of NATO’s rapid response and will enhance the Alliance’s ability to quickly deploy troops to the northern region.