Chief of Defence Puheloinen explains role of local forces

Military reforms expected to be made public in second week of February

Ari Puheloinen

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Plans for reform to Finland’s Defence Forces are expected to be ready by the end of this month, said Finland’s Chief of Defence Ari Puheloinen on Monday at the opening of the 200th National Defence Course in Helsinki.
      The publication of the plans depends on politicians, but Puheloinen expects that the proposals will be made public soon after the end of the month.
      Helsingin Sanomat has learned that the proposals are to be released in the second week of February, possibly already on the 7th.
     
The reforms are to lead to a sharp cutback in the size of Finland’s defence forces – a move which has caused grumbling in some quarters. Active reservists have feared that they might not have meaningful tasks any more.
      Puheloinen sought to assuage the worst fears. He mentioned that there are proposals to channel volunteer defence work through the local forces.
      “The local forces offer more extensive possibilities for a more varied use of use of experienced reservist personnel, according to the capacity of each individual – for instance in activities requiring special skills, in leadership tasks, and as trainers.”
     
The Chief of Defence revealed more detailed information about the local forces, whose tasks are to be more restricted than those of other forces.
      The local forces would be responsible for setting up the units themselves, and for training the soldiers, protecting specific locations, reconnaissance, guiding, protecting flanks, preventing enemy landings, commando activities, and fighting against special forces. The tasks would also include search and rescue activities as well as providing support for civilian authorities.
      The local forces would mainly be organised into battalions, which would include regional and commando companies, military police units, training and support units, and guard companies.


Previously in HS International Edition:
  Defence Forces introducing new battle tactics for Army (30.11.2011)
  Defence Forces Commander wants to shut down garrisons already in 2013 (20.9.2011)

Helsingin Sanomat