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Finland Confirms 50,000 Bomb Shelters Ready to Protect Nearly Entire Population

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Roman Kohanets
News Writer
Finland Confirms 50,000 Bomb Shelters Ready to Protect Nearly Entire Population
A long, reinforced underground passage in Finland’s civil defense network, designed to serve as a bomb shelter capable of rapid conversion for civilian protection. (Source: @BILD_Russian)

Finland has confirmed that its extensive network of bomb shelters is operational and capable of protecting nearly its entire population, according to government data and national media reports cited by Reuters on October 15.

The move comes as the country continues to strengthen civil defense infrastructure following heightened regional security concerns since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Finland’s Ministry of the Interior stated that the country has completed an assessment of its shelters, identifying more than 50,500 facilities nationwide.

These shelters, built into residential, commercial, and public buildings, have a combined capacity to accommodate 4.8 million people.

The system is functional and ready for use if needed,” said Tomi Rask, a senior adviser at Finland’s National Emergency Supply Agency, as quoted by Reuters.

According to France 24, Finland’s shelters are considered a model for Europe, where few countries maintain such a comprehensive network.

While nearly 91% of the shelters are rated strong enough to resist conventional attacks, 83% are equipped with air filtration systems that offer protection from nuclear, biological, or chemical threats.

The Finnish government’s review of its civil defense system coincides with an increase in defense spending and deeper integration with NATO structures following the country’s accession to the alliance in 2023.

Interior Minister Mari Rantanen said earlier this year that maintaining the shelters remains “a cornerstone of Finland’s national resilience and preparedness.”

In recent years, public interest in Finland’s civil protection measures has surged. Local emergency drills and awareness campaigns are now routine, reinforcing what officials describe as “a culture of readiness.”

Earlier, it was reported that Finland will lead an international coalition to build protective shelters for civilians in Ukraine.

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