Finnish conscript dies during training while on joint exercise with UK troops

A conscript in the Finnish military has died while taking part in a training exercise alongside members of the British Army.

Police are investigating the incident at the Vuosanka training area on Monday, where members of the Kainuu Brigade are operating alongside soldiers from 3 Rifles on Exercise Northern Axe.

The Finnish Army and police said the death was not caused by an accident or foul play and no weapons malfunction or training error was involved.

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The soldier was participating in drills as part of their regular military service and their family has been informed.

Counselling has been offered to members of the brigade and flags at the base have been lowered to half-mast.

The exercise is part of a wider training package to validate thousands of conscripts and reservists to ensure Finland can be defended against any external threat.

Around 3,000 personnel are involved in Northern Axe, with 70 soldiers from the UK taking part to gain experience in operating in the challenging cold weather conditions on Nato's eastern border.