Flights will take place in the air space covering Kalajoki, Kiuruvesi, Jyväskylä and Kauhajoki. The exercise is aimed at preparing Finnish forces for participation in international European crisis operations.
Swedish, French and Dutch units will be training with the Finnish air force until the end of the month. Originally, U.S. planes were also to be involved in the operation, but will not be arriving due to demands on US forces in other parts of the world.
Peace activists are planning a demonstration in Tampere on Saturday in protest against what they feel is Finland's involvement in international aggression.
YLE24