OVERLAND, Norway – Exercise TRIDENT JUNCTURE 18 involves over 30 NATO Allied and Partner nations, including Finland, with 600 Finnish personnel participating in the exercise which continues in Northern Europe.

Finnish personnel from across the Finnish Defence Forces have participated in all force component activities including the beach assault landings and air power capability demonstrations.

"My Finnish Marine Forces have been able to practice various techniques and procedures along with other national marines in conducting tactical amphibious operations,'' said Commander Sami Jaakkola, Finnish Amphibious Task Unit. "The training value has been excellent, and I am immensely proud of my personnel but especially the conscripts in my unit," he added.

Finland's Comprehensive Defence Concept ensures the safeguarding of Finland's independence and sovereign integrity where the national conscription programme ensures that home defence is a way of life. Its armed forces regularly exercise and are highly capable in conducting combined joint operations.

"Participation in Exercise TRIDENT JUNCTURE 18 has allowed us to test and develop our own national procedures but also to be part of multi-national planning for operations with our Partners,' said Lieutenant Colonel Saku Joukas, Detachment Commander Finnish Air Component. 

"From my air perspective, we have added significant value to combined operations on this exercise reflecting our ability and professionalism to be a strong Partner and exercise participant," he added.

The Finnish Armed Forces element of Exercise TRIDENT JUNCTURE 18 will complete the exercise Nov. 7 and return to their respective home bases.