The Finnish Defence Forces and state-owned property manager Senate Properties unveiled their concept for the garrison of the future this week at Upinniemi Garrison in Kirkkonummi.
Story continues after photo
Over the next few decades, operational and accommodation facilities will undergo extreme makeovers to better meet the training needs of tomorrow. Barracks are being redesigned to more fluidly accommodate self-study and downtime.
Modern impression
Bunk beds will be equipped with reading lamps and beds will be positioned against walls while dressers doubling as tables will run down the middle of rooms. Walls will feature mounted screens. To improve cleanliness, wet and dirty gear will be stored outside of sleeping quarters.
Story continues after photo
”Barracks will not be expanded, so spaces will have to be rearranged. Well-being, safety and comfort are first priorities,” said Arjo Kaarre of Senate Properties. He said teaching will increasingly be carried out in small groups, where students are able to get hands-on training using simulators. One of the goals is to cut down on time conscripts spend waiting around.
Story continues after photo
Jaakko Kivistö, chair of the Conscripts’ Association, said he was especially pleased to hear that combat gear could in the future be left outside the barracks and that efforts were being made to improve recruits’ privacy.
”It will be really great to have the opportunity to make a phone call with some privacy,” Kivistö told Yle in a phone interview.
He said he expects indoor air to improve when wet gear can be left outside of sleeping quarters.
By law, all Finnish men must attend a call-up for military service the year they turn 18. Military service lasts 165, 255 or 347 days. Non-military service spans 347 days.