A drone is flying near critical infrastructure in Ruoholahti, Helsinki. Police: No known case of a drone being operated in Finland by an actor linked to a state entity. Photo: Jussi Nukari / Lehtikuva
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Police in Finland are receiving dozens of drone sighting reports each month, with several new cases emerging in recent days. Authorities say most sightings are harmless, but increased attention is being paid to flights near critical infrastructure amid wider concerns about hybrid threats.
Recent reports from Europe have included temporary airport closures in Denmark and Norway due to unauthorised drone flights. In Finland, police say there is no confirmed evidence of drones linked to foreign state actors, but they are not ruling out the possibility in every case.
“Most of the reported sightings are linked to drone hobbyists or permitted aerial work,” said Vesa Pihajoki, chief superintendent at the National Police Board. “But we take all reports seriously, especially when drones are seen in restricted airspace or near key facilities.”
The Finnish police maintain an active picture of the national situation in cooperation with other authorities, including intelligence and aviation bodies. This situational awareness is part of broader preparedness for hybrid threats, which can include covert surveillance, interference with airspace, or attempts to gather data from sensitive sites.
Authorities note that distinguishing between aircraft and drones from the ground, especially in darkness, is often difficult. Many sightings turn out to involve commercial flights, mapping work, or recreational use. No advance notification is required for legal drone flying in non-restricted areas.
“Finland is well-prepared for various forms of hybrid influence,” said Ilkka Koskimäki, National Police Commissioner. “Our international cooperation, especially with Nordic countries and Europol members, is essential for identifying and responding to such threats.”
Drone sightings are most commonly reported near critical infrastructure, including water and energy facilities, government buildings, and defence areas. These locations are designated as no-fly zones under Finnish law. Violations may lead to police investigations and, if necessary, preliminary inquiries.
Commissioner Teemu Moilanen of Eastern Finland Police advised the public to report suspicious drone activity through the national emergency number if there is a perceived safety risk, illegal flight, or suspected surveillance of critical sites.
“There’s no need to report every drone you see,” Moilanen said. “But if a drone seems to pose danger or is flying in a prohibited area, we want to know.”
Despite the steady volume of reports, actual enforcement remains a challenge. Police say drone operators often leave the area before officers can arrive. Identifying and tracking the
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
