By Riffat Kausar
Scandinavian News Agency, Finland
Helsinki The Finnish government has introduced a new defense proposal to Parliament that aims to expand the country’s wartime military strength to more than one million soldiers by the year 2031. The plan would increase Finland’s reserve forces by 125,000, making it one of Europe’s largest armies relative to its population size.
If the proposal is approved, Finland will become the second largest wartime military power in Europe, following Russia.
With a population of only 5.6 million, Finland relies on a unique conscription system that requires all able-bodied men and allows women voluntarily — to undergo mandatory military training. This system enables the Nordic nation to mobilize a disproportionately large force compared to its small population.
Defense officials argue that the expansion is necessary due to growing regional security concerns following Russia’s war in Ukraine. By significantly boosting its reserves, Finland seeks to enhance its readiness and strengthen its deterrence capabilities within NATO and across Europe.
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