Finland Carries Out Europe’s Largest Civil Defence Drill Since WWII

More than 2,000 people gathered in Kuopio this week for a large-scale civil defence exercise designed to test how Finland would cope with a major crisis.

The Shelter 2026 drill simulated several serious situations, including cyberattacks, power and water outages, and the threat of missile strikes. Organisers said the exercise was the largest civil defence drill of its kind in Europe since World War II.

The exercise was centred at Luola, an underground sports and events facility in Kuopio’s Savilahti area. The complex normally operates as a sports centre but can be transformed into a large emergency shelter when needed.

On Wednesday, participants were told to make their way to the shelter, with around 30 minutes given to reach the site. Once inside, the doors were closed for about two hours as the emergency scenario continued.

The drill gave participants an idea of what life could be like during a major disruption. The sports hall was divided into smaller sections, while toilets and sleeping spaces were limited. More than 100 participants stayed underground overnight.

Luola can accommodate about 2,500 people under normal conditions and up to 7,000 people during an emergency.

Finnish conscripts also participated in the exercise, practising radiation measurements while wearing protective suits. The shelter's facilities are designed to offer protection in extreme emergencies, including nuclear and biological threats.

The exercise also focused on the role of ordinary people during a crisis. Finnish authorities recommend that households be prepared to manage independently for at least 72 hours if essential services such as electricity, water or communications are disrupted.

The drill comes as Finland continues to strengthen its national preparedness following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the country’s entry into NATO.