- We decided to increase our presence and surveillance in the Baltic Sea. To ensure safety, we will enhance the protection of critical underwater infrastructure and develop capabilities. The measures decided by the JEF countries complement the measures taken by NATO, the EU and the countries themselves, says Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen.  

Maritime surveillance in the Baltic Sea will be carried out during December, and it can be continued later. Finland participates in maritime surveillance with the vessels and aircraft of the Navy and the Border Guard. 

The UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) is a multilateral framework for defence cooperation, formed by ten countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom. 

- Defence cooperation with JEF countries is particularly important for Finland's security. We share a common vision to invest in the security in our region, Minister Häkkänen says. 

Through their cooperation, the JEF partner countries aim to develop military capabilities, prevent various crises and, if necessary, act together in crises. The main operating environment is Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea region.

Inquiries: Ville Sipiläinen, Special Adviser to the Minister, Ministry of Defence, tel. +358 40 761 1558, and Communications Specialist Ronni Läpinen, tel. +358 295 140 184.