Minister of Defence Häkkänen approves construction of new headquarters building for NATO command in Mikkeli

Minister of Defence Häkkänen approves construction of new headquarters building for NATO command in Mikkeli

A new headquarters building for NATO's Multi-Corps Land Component Command North (MCLCC-N) will be constructed in the Karkialampi garrison area in Mikkeli.

According to Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen, the project will reinforce Finland's position as part of NATO's northern defence while generating positive impacts on the regional economy and employment.

"This project will further highlight Mikkeli's strategic importance in the defence of Finland and NATO's High North. The new facilities will ensure long-term operating conditions for the NATO command in Finland and establish Mikkeli as a key location for the Alliance's military command in the northern region. Moreover, the project is expected to have positive impacts on the region's economy and employment," says Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen.

The project will be financed through NATO common funding, meaning that all NATO member states will contribute to the costs. Defence Minister Häkkänen decided to launch the project on 14 August 2026 after the Ministerial Finance Committee gave its support, on 13 August 2026, to the proposal put forward by the Ministry of Defence.

The decision to establish NATO's Multi-Corps Land Component Command North in Finland was adopted at the NATO summit held in summer 2024. Following this, Defence Minister Häkkänen decided the command would be placed in Mikkeli, the base of Army Command Finland.

The project includes the construction of a new headquarters building and the auxiliary structures and infrastructure required for its operation. The size and quality standards of construction are based on NATO's minimum requirements. This means the spaces will be constructed appropriately and cost-effectively, while ensuring that they meet the required standards for operational reliability, security and durability. Construction will also comply with national legislation and the central government premises strategy and energy efficiency targets. The project covers approximately 2,030 square metres and its estimated cost is EUR 19.4 million, excluding value added tax.

The construction project will be overseen by Defence Properties Finland, and the new building is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

Inquiries: Antti Vesala, Special Adviser to the Minister of Defence, tel. +358 295 140 099, antti.vesala(at)gov.fi