British attack helicopters arrive in Finland

British Apache and Wildcat helicopters have deployed to Finland as part of a major effort to strengthen joint training during the Finnish Army’s spring exercises.

According to a statement from the Finnish Defence Forces, two squadrons of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and one squadron of AW159 Wildcat helicopters have “successfully concentrated” at Säkylä, Finland.

The deployment marks the arrival of the first allied helicopter detachments for the spring training period.

The Finnish Defence Forces said: “The first part of the spring training activities is the concentration of allied AH-64 Apache attack helicopters and AW159 Wildcat helicopters, along with training forces arriving quickly in Finland by land and sea.” It added that the new capability “enables new types of exercises” and noted that working alongside combat helicopters is “a new element, especially for conscripts.”

The helicopters, the statement explained, are equipped for a range of exercises according to different tasks and are also capable of operating as “a completely independent unit” supporting domestic forces. Operations will be focused primarily within designated Defence Forces’ training areas, but deployments will also occur beyond those zones when necessary.

During their stay, the British helicopters will operate alongside Finnish NH90 and MD500 helicopters, with logistical and operational support provided by the Pori Brigade, the Utti Jaeger Regiment, and the Jaeger Brigade.

We’ve arrived 🔥

It’s great to be back in Finland to work with @Maavoimat as part of Op RAZOREDGE

🇬🇧 🤝 🇫🇮 #attack #strongertogether https://t.co/FtIn9EjYnG

— 3 Regiment Army Air Corps (@3RegimentAAC) April 26, 2025

The British Army’s 3 Regiment Army Air Corps also confirmed the arrival on social media, stating: “We’ve arrived. It’s great to be back in Finland to work with @Maavoimat as part of Op RAZOREDGE.”

In total, more than 20,000 soldiers will be trained this spring for roles in homeland defence and international cooperation, the Finnish Defence Forces said.