Finland and Israel Extend Secret Defense Pact Through 2034

The Government of Finland and Israel have signed a confidential memorandum of understanding to extend defense cooperation in military research, weapons development, and procurement through 2034. Approved by Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen in early 2024, the agreement extends the original 2013 pact for ten years, a significant increase from previous five-year renewal intervals. The framework establishes a joint coordination group that will meet annually to manage bilateral ties.

This cooperation includes the procurement of the David's Sling air-defense system from Rafael for approximately €317 million, as well as the acquisition of Spike anti-tank missiles. Additionally, the Finnish defense company Patria is collaborating with Rafael to integrate the Israeli Trophy active-protection system into Finnish armored vehicles. Commander of the Finnish Defense Forces Janne Jaakkola visited Israel in August 2026 to discuss these multi-layered air defense capabilities.

The disclosure of the secret pact has sparked backlash from Finnish opposition parties. Sofia Virta of the Green League condemned the deepening ties as a historic shame given the war in Gaza, arguing that the government intensified cooperation despite demands for pressure on Israel. Minister Häkkänen defended the agreement as standard practice, noting that Finland maintains similar arrangements with approximately 40 other countries.