The Finnish Navy is set to begin its main exercises of the autumn next week, the military branch has announced.
It said the international 'Freezing Winds 24' exercises will be held in southern Finland and the Northern Baltic Sea from 18 to 29 November.
Along with the Navy, the Finnish Army, Air Force, Logistics Command and the Border Guard will also take part in the exercise. Additionally, forces from several Allied countries will also take part, the Navy said.
The exercises will involve around 30 warships as well as other vessels and land troops. Participating countries include the US, France, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
A total of 4,000 troops will take part in the effort on the Finnish coast and the Baltic Sea.
"Along with Finland’s Nato integration, the exercise Freezing Winds has become an important part of Nato operations in the Baltic Sea," exercise director and Navy Captain Marko Laaksonen, said in a press release.
The exercise will also feature around ten military aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters. The Navy said the air operations may cause noise in southern areas of the country.
The military branch noted that the weather conditions of the Baltic Sea area in November provide a unique training opportunity.
"At this time of year, the weather can be anything from heavy snowfall to a rainy autumn storm. We must ensure interoperability in all circumstances, and exercises in these unique conditions will definitely enhance our readiness," Laaksonen said.
