JANUARY 22, 2026 – 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, in Kouvola, Finland.
The training, featuring the Finnish Karelian Brigade and other members of the Finnish Army Headquarters and other foreign partners, was conducted in support of the Department of War National Guard Bureau 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.
Virginia Army National Guard personnel also observed tactical troops in a field environment as part of 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,” Lt. Col. William Pearson said.
“What a great opportunity to enhance interoperability and exchange best practices with a partnering nation,” Sgt. 1st Class David Granfield said.
In addition to tactical training, the Virginia Soldiers gained insight into Finnish military culture and practices, and concluded 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.
By Mike Vrabel
Virginia National Guard