Finland has announced the removal of the swastika from its air force flags, responding to concerns about the symbol’s historical implications and its impact on relationships with NATO allies. The decision comes after Col. Tomi Böhm, the new commander of the Karelian Air Wing, acknowledged that the symbol had resulted in “awkward situations” during joint military exercises, particularly with United States forces.
The swastika’s association with Finland dates back to 1918, arising from the country’s civil war between the Soviet-backed Red Guards and the anti-communist Whites. Although the symbol has ancient roots in Hindu and Nordic cultures, its modern connotations are often linked to Nazi Germany. The emblem was introduced to the Finnish military by Count Eric Von Rosen, who provided the nation with its first military aircraft adorned with his personal symbol.
In a statement to Finnish media outlet YLE, Col. Böhm emphasized the need to adapt to contemporary sensibilities. He remarked, “We could have continued with this flag, but sometimes awkward situations can arise with foreign guests.” The swastika had already been removed from the air force command insignia in 2020, reflecting a broader shift in Finnish military culture.
Historical Context and Recent Changes
The swastika has a complex history in Finland, with its initial use linked to Count Von Rosen and later adopted by the National Socialist German Workers Party. Historian Teivo Teivainen, from Helsinki University and author of “History of the Swastika,” noted that despite Finland’s alliance with Nazi Germany during World War II, the country has consistently maintained that its use of the swastika does not connect to the Third Reich.
According to Teivainen, the Finnish Air Force’s traditional insignia is now incompatible with the nation’s status as a NATO member. “There’s now a need to get more integrated with the forces of countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and France – countries where the swastika is clearly a negative symbol,” he stated.
Finland joined NATO in 2023 after decades of military non-alignment, a shift prompted by escalating tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
International Reaction and Future Implications
The decision to remove the swastika has been welcomed by several NATO partners, particularly in light of previous incidents where the symbol caused diplomatic friction. In 2021, German Air Force units declined to participate in a ceremony at a military base in Finland’s Lapland region after learning that swastikas would be displayed.
Display of the swastika is criminalized in many countries, including Germany, France, and Australia, further complicating Finland’s military engagements. Col. Böhm clarified that there was no external pressure to eliminate the symbol, stating, “The world has changed, and we live with the times. There has been no political pressure for this.”
As Finland moves forward with its NATO commitments, the removal of the swastika symbolizes a broader effort to align with international standards and foster cooperative military relations. The air force’s modernized insignia reflects Finland’s commitment to embracing a new era of defense collaboration.
