Helsinki, Sept 4 (Reuters) – Finland’s Air Force has announced that it will no longer use the swastika emblem on its official flags, drawing an end to a controversial chapter in its military symbolism. The decision comes after decades of debate surrounding the symbol, which in Finland held local historic significance but remains globally associated with Nazi Germany and World War II atrocities.
The Finnish Air Force first adopted the swastika in 1918, long before it was appropriated by the Nazis. For the Finns, the insignia symbolized good fortune and was linked to the nation’s struggle for independence. However, despite repeated clarifications about its different origins, the emblem has been the subject of mounting international scrutiny.
A statement from the Finnish Ministry of Defence underscored the importance of aligning military symbols with modern values and international understanding. “While the swastika has older roots in Finland, its association abroad is inseparable from the crimes of the Nazi regime. This change ensures our armed forces’ insignia do not cause confusion or distress,” the ministry said.
Historians note that Finland quietly began phasing out the swastika emblem in aircrafts and uniforms over the past decade, replacing it with insignia featuring stylized wings and the national roundel. The removal of the symbol from flags marks the final step in the modernization process.
Experts suggest the move could help Finland further strengthen international defense cooperation, particularly as the country deepens its security partnerships within the NATO alliance, which it joined in 2023.
“This is more than a cosmetic change. It shows Finland’s commitment to shared values with Western allies as global security tensions grow,” said Dr. Kari Lehtinen, a Helsinki-based defense analyst.
The new Air Force flag design, which replaces the swastika with a golden wings emblem, will be officially unveiled later this year.
