Finland reported suspected drone activity near Helsinki early on May 15, prompting an emergency warning for southern Finland airspace and flight disruptions at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport [1, 2, 3]. The drone was reportedly moving between Helsinki and Porvoo, near sensitive infrastructure like the Neste oil refinery [2, 3].
Authorities advised about 1.8 million residents in southern Finland to stay indoors during the incident [2]. The Finnish Defence Forces scrambled fighter jets and enhanced surveillance and response capabilities in reaction to the threat [1, 3]. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said, "Authorities are taking action. The Defence Forces have enhanced their own surveillance and response capabilities. I urge everyone to follow the authorities' bulletins" [1].
An emergency warning was first issued at 3:49 a.m. local time and lifted at 7:06 a.m. [2]. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport reopened at 9 a.m. after a three-hour suspension, restoring normal flight operations [1]. Interior Minister Mari Rantanen said, "The danger is over. People can go to work and school safely" [1].
This was Finland's first drone-related alert near Helsinki [2]. Finland has faced occasional stray drone incursions tied to the Russia-Ukraine conflict but the government stated it is not currently facing a direct military threat from this incident [2, 3]. The Russian Ministry of Defence reported shooting down 355 Ukrainian drones but did not mention incursions into Finland [2].
Finland joined NATO in April 2023 and shares its longest NATO border with Russia [3]. Prime Minister Orpo added, "A danger alert has been issued for Uusimaa regarding drones. Official measures are underway. The Defense Forces have intensified their surveillance and counter-capabilities" [3].
