The defense ministry said the maneuvers, which boosted “interoperability” as both Sweden and Finland seek to join NATO, took place in Rovaniemi and Rovajärvi in northern Finland. The exercise was staged against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine, which has sharpened minds across Europe about security on the continent in the face of Russian aggression. In July, it emerged that the RAF had sent four Typhoons and two F-35Bs to Finland and Sweden for joint training exercises. Finland signed a mutual security assurance declaration with the UK in May and is also a member of the UK-led Joint Task Force, a 10-nation coalition. Analysis: NATO expansion doesn’t ease Vladimir Putin’s paranoia – and dictators can’t afford to lose Read more: NATO countries must spend more on defense as alliance confronts Russia’s military build-up, chief says of the organism Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said: “While there is war in Europe, it is more important than ever that we strengthen our international partnerships. “We welcome the application of Finland and Sweden to join NATO and we will continue to exercise together, so we are ready to face common security challenges. “Exercise Vigilant Knife is an invaluable opportunity for UK personnel to develop their skills and experience in cold weather combat, enabling them to be effective on the battlefield alongside their Finnish and Swedish counterparts.”
