Director of the United States European Command J7 Visited Finland

Major General James R. Kriesel, the Director of the United States European Command (USEUCOM) J7 and Reserve Component Advisor to Commander USEUCOM, familiarized himself with the Finnish conscription system and the exercise and training systems in the Finnish Army and Air Forces during his visit on 9–11 July 2024. The visit was hosted by Brigadier General Manu Tuominen, Assistant Chief of Staff J7 Training.

Other topics of discussion in the Defence Command included development of bilateral cooperation between the United States and Finland, practical implementation of the Defence Cooperation Agreement and the role of NATO as a part of Finland’s defence.

At the Air Force Academy, discussions covered the effects of the new fifth generation fighters (F–35) on pilot training.

Major General Kriesel was impressed by the skills and determination of the Finnish soldiers to defend their country as he observed a training session of the Karelia Brigade's high-level readiness unit and Reserve Officer School students’ live-fire training in Pahkajärvi training area. Major General Kriesel was also briefed about education and training in the Utti Jaeger Regiment as well as in the Air Force Academy. 

When talking to conscripts and women doing volunteer military service, Major General Kriesel expressed his sincerest thanks for their efforts to enhance security in our society.