Yep, that shielding is extremely important nowadays, with Putin having proven to be on a rabid run. Already ten days ago or so it was reported that Russia had started extensive and unusual movement of forces at and towards the Finnish border. Hopefully only an attemept to intimidate the Fins. That was at a time when the news speculated extensively on whether or not Finland would apply for membership indeed.
Its a risky but I think necessary decision by Finland (and Sweden). Putin has proven he needs no provocation to behave as if it had been provoked.
For NATO, these two candidates, different to some other recent new members, are net contributors of substantial fighting power and modern technology, and are highly welcomed. Both countries can field substantial and robust military assets in the air and on and under the sea, and in case of Finland really impressive ground forces as well, with huge reserves possible to be called up that can be FULLY EQUIPPED, not just served with third class material with rust and dust on it. Very welcomed new two members these are!
Putin cannot like one bit of what he has acchieved there. Not one bit. Even better, both countries' forces have already extensively trained with and according to NATO standards. Their integration should be easy running, smooth as silk.
Very welcomed! Very good news for NATO! Absolutely a net gain for NATO, both of them!
(As an SPB player I just love those CV-line of IFVs the Swedish and Fins have, CV-35 and CV-40)
In the sim, these rock. )