Finland’s Air Force is set to phase out the use of swastikas on its unit flags as part of a broader effort to modernize its imagery and align more closely with NATO allies. The decision follows Finland’s accession to NATO in April 2023, with the aim of fostering better diplomatic relations and avoiding potential misunderstandings during international engagements.
The swastika has a complex history in Finland, being used by the Air Force since 1918, long before it became associated with Nazi Germany. Initially adopted as a national insignia, the blue swastika on a white background symbolized Finnish independence after more than a century of Imperial Russian rule. Despite its ancient roots, the symbol has increasingly drawn scrutiny, particularly among foreign visitors and NATO partners, due to its negative connotations.
Historical Context and Recent Developments
Change began years ago, with the Air Force Command removing a swastika logo from its unit emblem in previous reforms. Nevertheless, swastikas remained on certain flags, prompting concerns from both military officials and the public. Col. Tomi Böhm, the new head of the Karelia Air Wing, acknowledged the potential for awkward situations with foreign visitors, suggesting it may be prudent to adapt to contemporary sensibilities.
In an email to The Associated Press, the Finnish Defense Forces confirmed that the decision to renew Air Force unit flags began in 2023. The intent was to “update the symbolism and emblems of the flags to better reflect the current identity of the Air Force.” They further noted that the removal of the swastika is not directly linked to NATO membership but rather a response to its growing perception as an “embarrassing symbol in international contexts,” as reported by Helsingin Sanomat.
Teivo Teivanen, a professor of world politics at the University of Helsinki, explained that the flags bearing the swastika were introduced in the 1950s and are currently used by four Air Force units. He emphasized that the Finnish Air Force has long maintained that its use of the swastika is not connected to Nazi ideology, despite Finland’s historical alliance with Nazi Germany during World War II.
Reactions and Future Plans
The decision to retire the swastika flags has been met with mixed reactions. Some view it as a necessary step toward better integration with NATO forces, particularly those from countries like Germany and France, where the swastika carries a heavy stigma. Teivanen highlighted a recent incident in 2021 when German air force units withdrew from a ceremony in Finland upon learning that swastikas would be displayed, underlining the need for sensitivity in international military relations.
The new flags, featuring an eagle design, will be introduced as part of ceremonial events and parades once finalized. The Finnish Defense Forces did not specify a timeline for the rollout but indicated that this change is a continuation of previous reforms, as the traditional Von Rosen swastika emblem has already been removed from most other Air Force insignia.
This shift in policy underscores Finland’s commitment to adapting its military symbolism to reflect both its historical context and modern-day alliances, ensuring a respectful and unified presence within NATO.
