07:02 18-04-2026

Finland Expands K9 Howitzers Near Russian Border

Finland orders 112 more K9 howitzers, increasing deployments near the Russian border as NATO activity and regional tensions continue to rise.

Finland has decided to expand its artillery capabilities by purchasing an additional batch of K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers, with plans to deploy them near its border with Russia. This was reported by Military Watch Magazine.

According to the publication, Finland’s Ministry of Defense has ordered 112 more 155-mm K9 systems. The new units are expected to be positioned along the country’s 1,340-kilometer frontier with Russia, significantly reinforcing that stretch of the border.

A source cited by the outlet indicates that the total number of K9 howitzers in the Finnish military will rise to 208 once the delivery is complete.

In recent years, Russian officials have repeatedly voiced concern over increased NATO military activity near the country’s western borders. The alliance, for its part, maintains that such measures are aimed at deterrence.

The Kremlin has consistently stated that Russia has no intention of attacking NATO countries, while emphasizing that it will closely monitor any developments it views as a potential threat to its security. President Vladimir Putin has also argued that claims about a supposed Russian threat are used by Western politicians to divert attention from domestic issues.