The NATO Supply and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has completed a competitive tendering process for new ski equipment that meets the requirements of the Finnish Defence Forces. The Defence Forces Logistics Command will acquire over 8,000 pairs of ski equipment, including skis, bindings, and spare parts, for the Ground Forces’ northern troops, with a total value of almost EUR 3 million (including VAT). The new ski equipment will be delivered to the Jaeger Brigade and Kainuu Brigade during the winter season of 2023-2024.
The new ski equipment is designed to improve the combatants’ ability to advance in deep snow conditions of northern Finland. The skis are made with modern materials and manufacturing techniques that allow for longer and wider skis without significant increase in weight. The skis have better load-bearing capacity and can be used with any military footwear, unlike the existing ski bindings which require winter rubber boots. The ski bindings are also easily adjustable for different types of footwear and can be put on and taken off quickly even while wearing mittens.
The existing ski equipment will continue to be used by troops operating in areas with less volume of deep snow. The NSPA has also concluded three-year framework agreements with Finnish companies, with a total value exceeding EUR 11 million (excluding VAT), and the first ski equipment procurement in Finland is expected to have an employment impact of approximately 20 man years.
The NSPA framework agreements also allow other countries to join the procurement between 2023 and 2025, which would generate advantages in terms of volume and operational compatibility between the northern troops. Overall, the acquisition of new ski equipment is expected to enhance the capabilities of the Finnish Defence Forces in northern winter conditions and improve the mobility and effectiveness of their troops.
https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/-/new-ski-equipment-for-northern-troops