Article Abstract:
The Finnish Navy will undergo a more radical restructuring than the entire Finnish Defense Forces, which will embark on a major reorganization beginning July 1998. The service will merge its fleet, coastal artillery and coastal infantry, necessitating an increase in personnel from 1,400 to 2,300. The number of conscripts trained every year will also increase to 5,300, more than three times the current number. Moreover, the service's material and procurement departments will be expanded. On the equipment side, the service is considering buying a new fast attack craft and modernizing its mine counter-measures capabilities.
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Article Abstract:
Eero Lavonen, Director General of the Central Department of the Finnish Ministry of Defense, said the F-18 Hornet jet fighters, wheeled APCs, tracked IFVs, medium-range anti-tank missiles are some of the most important procurement programs of the Finnish Armed Forces. Lavonen added the the F-18 program has proceeded as planned and the last of the 57 single-seater units would be delivered by Aug 2000. He also stated that the contracts for the Nordic Standard Helicopter would be signed by the end of 2000.
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Jean-Erik Enestam, Finland's Minister of Defense, said the key elements of the country's defense policy are non-participation in military alliances, a competent defense capability and membership in the EU. Enestam added that Finland's security position is influenced by its common border with Russia as well as the situation in Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea Region. He also believes that Finland can further develop its defense capability by participating in international peace support operations.
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