How about stepping into a realm where the echoes of artillery fire resonate through history? This is Rovajärven ampuma-alue. It is no ordinary landscape. It is Western Europe’s largest military training area. Spanning across Kemijärvi, Pelkosenniemi, Rovaniemi and Sodankylä. This area is approximately 1200 square kilometers.
Rovajärven ampuma-alue serves primarily for artillery and mortar training. It also supports the Northern and armored forces of Finland. Established in 1949 without formal legal proceedings, it became the Defence Forces’ primary northern firing range in 1986. The need for Rovajärven ampuma-alue arose after Finland lost the Perkjärvi firing range in the Paris Peace Treaty.
Imagine the landscape before you. It is divided into distinct sections. These include Rovajärvi, Heinuvaara, Kielijupu, Sarrio and Ristilampi. Troop movements to the training area can occur by rail. The Mis railway station is located in Rovaniemi’s Mis.
Picture soldiers maneuvering through the terrain. They are preparing for a Tykistön ampumaharjoitus a two-week artillery live fire exercise. Units practice operations at the battle group level. Then as part of a brigade. A major artillery and mortar exercise occurs each spring in May or June. These exercises attract troops from many countries.
Once upon a time, training exercises stretched over a month. Now they last about two weeks. Some events were removed to take place during other service times. One tradition remains. The Tykistökenraali VP Nenonen firing competition. Battalions and mortar companies compete. They must quickly move into position and engage targets. The best unit receives Nenonen’s cannon as a trophy.
Consider the logistics required to support these exercises. The training area houses Misin kauppa, a store in the base building. There is also an ammunition depot managed by the Northern Finland Support Regiment.
Rovajärven ampuma-alue is not without its incidents. There was a mortar tube rupture in 2001. A conscript from the Porin Brigade died during training in December 2005. In the summer of 2006 a small wildfire broke out. It was allowed to burn out due to ammunition in the area. In May 2013, three artillery shells landed close to an observation post. In December 2018, a conscript died. He was crushed under an all-terrain vehicle. In April 2022, a Jaeger Brigade trainer died in an explosion.
In 2023, the DCA agreement with the United States designated Rovajärvi training area for US use if needed. Today, Rovajärven ampuma-alue stands as a testament to Finland’s defense capabilities. It also highlights international cooperation. As you stand here, remember the echoes of history. Think about the soldiers who have trained here. Remember the vital role this area plays in maintaining security.