Erikoisvarusteltujat

Erikoisvarusteltujat is a series of biennial festivals held in Finland that celebrate the tradition and craftsmanship of specialised military and civil defence equipment. The term blends “erikoisvaruste” (special equipment) and “tujat” (gatherings), emphasizing the communal showcase of artefacts that are rarely seen by the public. The first Erikoisvarusteltujat event took place in 2002 in the town of Kuopio, organised by the Finnish Defence Forces in collaboration with local cultural institutions. Its purpose was to increase public awareness of Finland’s readiness training and to honour the technical innovation that supports national security.

Each edition features exhibitions, guided tours, demonstration drills, and workshops where visitors can learn about the design, manufacture and operation of items such as advance reconnaissance drones, protective body armour, field hospitals, and vehicle recovery equipment. Alongside the displays, veterans volunteer as docents, offering personal anecdotes that illustrate the human dimension behind the technology. The festivals also invite representatives from abroad, fostering international dialogue on defence technology and joint training.

The events have grown steadily, attracting over 10,000 visitors in recent years. While primarily educational, Erikoisvarusteltujat aim to strengthen civic pride by showcasing Finland’s commitment to self-reliance and technological self-sufficiency. By bringing specialised equipment into public view, the festival promotes transparency about defence matters and encourages the next generation of engineers and technicians to pursue careers in defence-related fields.