Finland Restricts Shipping in Gulf of Finland Due to Possible Drones

The Finnish Defence Forces imposed a temporary navigation restriction in the eastern part of the Gulf of Finland on Saturday, July 18, citing a potential need to shoot down unidentified drones. The restriction went into effect at 5:45 AM.

According to the Finnish Defence Forces, this is a precautionary measure aimed at protecting bystanders and enabling authorities to respond to potential drone attacks. However, Katri Kokkola, a representative of the Finnish Defence Forces General Staff, stated that no drones deviating from course or entering Finnish territory have been detected so far.

She added that the Defence Forces have strengthened their air defense system. No airspace restrictions were introduced on Saturday.

It is worth noting that the Finnish government is preparing a special memo for residents with instructions on how to act in the event of a drone threat. Reports also indicate that Finland will purchase short-range air defense systems from Swedish manufacturer Saab.