Helsinki: Finland is developing a mobile application to warn citizens of approaching drones, YLE news reported Tuesday, citing the Interior Ministry. The mobile application is planned to be delivered by late 2027 and aims to enhance public safety by providing timely alerts about potential drone threats.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Finnish government is also working on a parallel warning system based on text messages. This SMS-based system is designed to reach individuals without smartphones and can be utilized for a wide range of hazards, including dangerous chemical incidents. Jussi Korhonen, director of preparedness at the Interior Ministry's Rescue Department, emphasized that the two systems have "slightly different purposes."

The mobile app is intended for use in exceptional situations confirmed by the government or the president, such as armed attacks or threats to Finland. It will be integrated into the existing 112 Suomi.fi application, which already provides hazard alerts to citizens.

Recently, Finland's Defense Ministry reported the detection of at least two unmanned aerial vehicles in the country's southeastern region. One of the drones was identified by the Finnish Air Force as Ukrainian before it crashed near Kouvola. In response, Finnish F/A-18 fighter jets were deployed to identify the objects, but they refrained from engaging to avoid collateral damage.

Southeastern Finland shares a border with Russia, a nation currently engaged in armed conflict with Ukraine since February 2022. The development of these warning systems indicates Finland's proactive approach to safeguarding its citizens amidst regional tensions.