The police are actively maintaining situational awareness regarding potential hybrid influence operations targeting Finland, said police in a press release on Friday.
Several possible drone sightings have also been reported in Finland and the majority of these sightings are explained by drone hobbyists or air traffic activities.
In recent days, there have been reports from Europe about drone flights observed in areas such as airports. Several potential drone sightings have also been reported to the police in Finland in recent days.
These sightings are typically reported to the police in dozens each month. Generally, reported sightings are related to drone flights near critical infrastructure or in restricted or no-fly zones.
The majority of reported sightings to the police can be explained drone pilotin as a hobby or air traffic. It is particularly challenging to distinguish between a drone and an aircraft, especially from the ground and at night. Additionally, flying a drone does not require a specific notification.
The police investigate reported exceptional drone sightings—those cases where a suspected sighting is related to drone flights in a prohibited or restricted area. If necessary, the police will use investigative measures.
To date, there have been no confirmed cases of a state actor being involved in drone flights in Finland; however, this possibility has not been entirely ruled out in all cases.
"The police are engaging in extensive cooperation with various authorities in maintaining situational awareness and in preparations for countermeasures against unmanned aerial systems, as well as in developing capabilities," states Assistant Police Commissioner Vesa Pihajoki.
"In maintaining the situational picture related to hybrid influence and preparing for potential hostile actions, international cooperation is also being conducted, particularly with other Nordic countries and with Europol member states," said National Police Commissioner Ilkka Koskimäki.
- Police
- Drone
- Finland
Source: www.dailyfinland.fi