Finland has updated its mobilization rules to allow reservists to bring privately owned equipment when called up for service, including firearms, drones, and GPS devices, the Kyiv Post reported.
Any such equipment will be inspected and approved by the military before use.
According to officials, the aim is to mobilize additional resources from the civilian population in the event of a crisis.
Bringing personal equipment remains voluntary, and the armed forces continue to rely on their own stockpiles for standard weapons and ammunition.
Civilian Resources
Finland maintains a high level of civilian firearm ownership, with an estimated 1.5 million licensed weapons, mostly hunting rifles and shotguns, across a population of about 5.5 million, according to the Kyiv Post.
Roughly one in three adults owns a firearm.
The country’s defense model is based on conscription and supported by a large reserve force.
In wartime, the European country expects to mobilize about 280,000 troops, backed by 870,000 reservists.
The reservist pool is projected to approach one million by 2030, following plans announced last year to raise the upper age limit for reservists from 60 to 65.
Security Concerns
The guidance is part of broader efforts to strengthen Finland’s military preparedness in response to potential threats from neighboring Russia.
Earlier this month, Helsinki said it was closely monitoring Russian military activity near the border, following reports from its armed forces and international media indicating a buildup of infrastructure there.
Satellite imagery published by The New York Times appeared to show expanded military facilities, which Finnish officials said could support the deployment of additional troops once the war in Ukraine subsides.
The shift comes amid Finland’s decision to join NATO in 2023, ending decades of military non-alignment.
Since then, Moscow has repeatedly warned of potential consequences following the country’s accession, which took place after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
