Finland's massive bomb shelters draw world to Helsinki in quest for security
Finland's extensive bomb shelters have attracted global interest, particularly from Ukrainian mayors seeking security solutions amid ongoing conflicts. The Merihaka civil shelter in Helsinki, capable of housing 6,000 people, exemplifies Finland's commitment to safety and resilience. As demand for such facilities grows, Finnish companies are poised to expand their shelter exports significantly.
- ▪The Merihaka civil shelter in Helsinki can accommodate 6,000 people and features sports facilities and a playground.
- ▪Around 800 foreign delegations have visited Finnish bomb shelters, highlighting international interest in security solutions.
- ▪Finnish companies are skilled in constructing bomb shelters, with significant growth potential in exports due to rising global demand.
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Finland's massive bomb shelters draw world to Helsinki in quest for securitySign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxPublished May 21, 2026, 03:04 PMUpdated May 21, 2026, 03:04 PMHELSINKI/BALAKLIIA, Ukraine, May 21 - Visiting mayors from Ukrainian cities took pictures inside an enormous cave carved in the bedrock below the Finnish capital, taking in the size and the possibilities of a space that can accommodate 6,000 people.They are among around 800 foreign delegations who have visited Helsinki's Merihaka civil shelter - the biggest of the country's dual-use shelters and now a major shop window for Finnish companies looking to export to buyers concerned about the war in Ukraine and, increasingly, the conflict with Iran.At 71,000 cubic metres, the shelter is roughly the…
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