Finland Trains Helicopter Crews to Shoot Down Drones, Following Ukraine’s Lead, Video

The Finnish Army has begun testing helicopter-based counter-drone tactics inspired by Ukraine’s experience in intercepting Shahed-type drones, according to a video released by Finland’s Land Forces.

During the ongoing MalletStrike125 exercise, Finnish NH90 helicopters engaged drone targets using side-mounted M134 Miniguns. The training also included attempts to neutralize aerial threats using small arms fired by troops onboard the helicopters, though with less effectiveness.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, Finland’s Land Forces noted:

“Lessons from the war in Ukraine are being put into practice. The ADEX MalletStrike125 training exercise involves joint efforts to counter drones using various means. The Utti Jaeger Regiment is also participating with its own counter-drone capabilities.”

The exercise reflects a broader trend among European militaries incorporating battlefield experience from Ukraine into their defense strategies. France recently conducted a similar scenario involving drone interception from helicopters as part of its POLARIS 25 military exercise.

Earlier, satellite imagery analyzed by Army Recognition revealed Russia’s reactivation of Cold War-era airbases and a major troop buildup near the Finnish border. Over 130 tents were set up in Kamenka, just 60 km from Finland, while new armored vehicle storage facilities appeared in Petrozavodsk.

Additional activity was noted at Severomorsk-2 and Olenya airfields, suggesting a broader effort to reestablish military infrastructure along NATO’s northern flank.

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