Finnish military boost: Reservist age raised to 65 amid threats
The Finnish government plans to increase the reservists' age to 65, increasing the reserve force to one million soldiers. This step is in response to the growing threat from Russia.
Main Points
- The Finnish government intends to raise the age of reservists to 65 years.
- The reserve force will expand to one million soldiers.
- The changes are set to take effect starting in 2026.
The Finnish government has announced plans to raise the maximum age for reservists to 65. Currently, reservists can serve until 50, while officers and non-commissioned officers can serve until 60. Raising the age for reservists aims to "strengthen the defense and security of Finland."
Finland’s defence capability is based on general conscription, a trained reserve and a strong will to defend the country. By raising the maximum age of reservists, we are giving more people the possibility to participate in national defence, announced Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen.
Finland's Defense Minister, Antti Hakkanen, emphasized that this decision is a response to growing threats, including the Russian military assault on Ukraine. Raising the age of reservists is part of the program by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo's government, which is now halfway through its term.
A Clear Signal to Allies
Finland, which joined NATO in April 2023, aims to demonstrate its commitment to defense to its allies.
This is proof for Nato allies that Finland did not pause when it joined Nato but takes the strengthening of national defence very seriously, stated Hakkanen at the Wednesday press conference.
Finland is one of the few European countries that retained mandatory military service after the Cold War. Currently, there are about 870,000 Finns in the reserve. During wartime, the armed forces number 280,000 soldiers, supplemented as needed with reservists.
The changes are expected to take effect in 2026, allowing Finland to further bolster its defense capabilities. According to Finnish authorities, an army based on a large reserve will remain a crucial element of the country's security.
