Finland and Estonia are intensifying military cooperation, focusing on protecting the Gulf of Finland in the event of possible aggression from Russia, as reported by ERR. Major General Andrus Merilo, head of Estonia's defense forces, told the Helsingin Sanomat newspaper that the countries are working on a plan to close the gulf to Russian ships if a threat arises.
“We are expanding cooperation with Finland in maritime defense and are ready to develop concrete steps to prevent hostile actions in the Baltic Sea. We can do this and are moving in that direction,” Merilo stated.
He also noted that the closure of the Gulf of Finland will depend on the security situation. If a threat arises, the countries are prepared to take necessary measures for protection, he added.
Former editor-in-chief of the military journal Suomen Sotilas, Jaakko Puuperä, also commented on the matter. According to him, the geographical location of the Gulf of Finland facilitates its closure, particularly with the use of mines and missile systems. However, he emphasized that Finland should consider economic risks, as two key ports—Helsinki and Hamina-Kotka—are located by the gulf. In the event of a prolonged crisis, shipping would need to be redirected to the North Sea, which would be a massive infrastructure project.
Puuperä also pointed out the environmental risks associated with a potential blockade: sinking oil tankers in the gulf would cause enormous ecological damage.
In his view, traditional methods such as mines and coastal artillery could also be used to protect the gulf. However, he noted that modern technology has significantly changed naval warfare methods since these tools were first employed.
If the issue of closing the Gulf of Finland is seriously considered, Puuperä believes that there will be a need to increase readiness and demonstrate strength. He suggested that American, British, and Swedish forces could be invited to potential exercises.
Thus, Finland and Estonia are seriously considering ways to strengthen their maritime defense in light of rising tensions in the region.
