Hundreds of British troops, Apache helicopters, and rocket systems have been deployed to Finland as part of a major NATO exercise, marking a significant show of allied firepower on the alliance’s eastern flank.
Exercise Northern Strike, now underway in northern Finland, features forces from the UK, Finland, and Sweden—NATO’s two newest members. The UK contribution includes AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), both of which will conduct live-fire drills in support of multinational ground units.
“Exercise Northern Strike demonstrates our unshakeable commitment to NATO and highlights the key capabilities the UK brings to the Alliance,” said Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard MP. “From the skies over Poland, to the northern reaches of Finland, the UK is standing shoulder to shoulder with our allies.”
The deployment is part of Operation RAZOREDGE, a wider effort involving 13 NATO nations across six countries, including over 6,000 UK personnel. Northern Strike itself represents a deepening of military cooperation in the High North, with joint training intended to increase interoperability and signal deterrence.
For the British Army, the exercise is notable as the first time the MLRS—proven in combat in Ukraine—has been used alongside AH-64E helicopters on European soil. Apache helicopters from 4 Regiment, Army Air Corps, will fire Hellfire missiles and 30mm guns in simulated close air support roles. Infantry and artillery units will also be put through a full field training exercise.
Pollard added that the deployment is aligned with the government’s broader Plan for Change and reaffirmed the UK’s pledge to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027. “Working with our international partners is at the core of this government’s NATO-first policy,” he said. “It ensures the UK is secure at home and strong abroad.”
The exercise also underscores the role of British industry, say the MOD in their news release. Seventy-five UK companies—including 33 SMEs—support the Apache programme by supplying key components, reinforcing the domestic defence sector’s connection to frontline capability.
