The Kainuu Brigade's Northern Axe 25 combat exercise will be conducted in the Kainuu region from November 29 to December 5, 2025.
The purpose of the exercise is to train troops in defense, delaying, attack, and night combat in the demanding conditions of northern Finland. The focus of the exercise is on cooperation between different branches of the armed forces.
The exercise is the last combat training for conscripts who will be demobilized in December, but it also includes several refresher exercises for reservists.
- The Kainuu Brigade's autumn training season culminates in the Northern Axe 25 exercise. During the exercise, we will assess the proficiency of conscripts in various combat disciplines before they transfer to the reserve. At the same time, we train reservists in both local defence company combat tasks and various staff duties. In order to achieve the focus of the exercise, cooperation between different branches, it is essential to train leaders in different types of situations. Cooperation with the British unit strengthens our ability to cooperate with our allies, says Brigadier General Ari Laaksonen, commander of the exercise.
The exercise force consists of approximately 3,000 personnel, including around 600 reservists. Troops from the Kainuu and North Karelia Border Guard Districts are also participating in the exercise, as well as troops and personnel from the United Kingdom. There are approximately 600 vehicles, including combat tanks. Two NH90 transport helicopters and one MD 500 light helicopter from the Utti Jaeger Regiment are participating in the exercise. In addition, unmanned aerial vehicles are actively used in the exercise.
The exercise troops will move from the garrison to the exercise areas on Sunday and Monday, December 30-31, along several routes. Most of the exercise activities will take place in the Vuosanka exercise area starting on December 1.
