The United States Army
01/21/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 01/21/2026 21:52
29th ID Participates in Warfighter Exercise in Finland
[Link] State Partnership Program logo (Photo Credit: DOW) VIEW ORIGINAL
KOUVOLA, Finland - Virginia National Guard Soldiers assigned to the Fort Belvoir-based 29th Infantry Division Headquarters participated in the Finnish training exercise Operation Karelian Spear Nov. 28 - Dec. 4, 2025.
The training, featuring the Finnish Karelian Brigade and other members of the Finnish Army Headquarters, as well as other foreign partners, was conducted in support of the State Partnership Program, in which Virginia and Finland have been formal partners since 2024.
The training brought together military personnel from multiple NATO nations alongside the Virginia Army National Guard. Over the course of the week, participants supported warfighting functional cells during a simulated warfighting training exercise. The VaARNG personnel also observed tactical troops in a field environment linked with the exercise.
The 29th contingent was directly integrated within the Finnish 4th Army Corps Headquarters as they simulated a Warfighter Exercise, supporting current and future operations.
"This was an excellent opportunity to evaluate our critical path and execution of operations against a partner's, enabling us both to grow and learn," said Lt. Col. William Pearson.
"What a great opportunity to enhance interoperability and exchange best practices with a partnering nation," added Sgt. 1st Class David Granfield.
In addition to tactical training, the Virginia Soldiers gained insight into Finnish military culture and practices, as well as concluding the week with a networking dinner with the senior headquarters staff.
Karelian Spear reflects the ongoing partnership between the Virginia National Guard and Finnish Defense Forces, building on past exchanges such as Arctic Forge, Karelian Sword, and marksmanship competitions. These efforts highlight the Virginia Guard's role in strengthening partner capacity, professional development, and joint readiness.
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