Russia expanding military presence near Finnish border, satellite imagery reveals

Russia is steadily expanding its military infrastructure near the Finnish border, including in Arctic areas, according to newly analyzed satellite imagery reviewed by The New York Times. The buildup—confirmed by NATO officials—includes new vehicle warehouses, fighter jet shelter renovations, and reactivated helicopter bases, signaling a long-term strategy shift as the war in Ukraine drags on.

While current troop levels remain low, experts and defense officials anticipate a significant Russian redeployment to the 830-mile Finnish frontier—NATO’s longest land border with Russia—once the Ukraine conflict de-escalates. Finnish intelligence expects the number of Russian troops stationed along the border to triple within five years.

Recent military activity includes dozens of helicopters at a previously dormant base near Murmansk, an increase in aircraft at Olenya air base less than 100 miles from Finland, and over a hundred new tents at Kamenka, a base just 40 miles from the border. Analysts believe Russia is restructuring brigades into larger divisions in preparation for future tensions with NATO, particularly in the Arctic.

American and Finnish troops have also ramped up Arctic readiness, conducting joint war games in northern Finland earlier this year. Moscow’s perception of NATO encroachment—especially after Finland joined the alliance in 2023—is seen as a key driver behind these moves.

Finnish defense officials, while not alarmed, are clear-eyed. “The increase of military force in our nearby areas will happen after the fighting in Ukraine quiets down,” said Janne Kuusela of Finland’s Ministry of Defense. “That’s what we have to be prepared for.”