Kastelutoimien

Kastelutoimien refers to a specific type of military operation or strategy employed by the Finnish Army during the Winter War (1939-1940) and the Continuation War (1941-1944) against the Soviet Union. The term is derived from the Finnish word "kastelu," which means "watering," and "toimi," which means "operation." The concept was developed by Finnish military strategists to counter the Soviet Union's superior numbers and firepower.

The kastelutoimien strategy involved the use of small, mobile units to harass and disrupt Soviet supply lines and communications. These units would operate in the rear areas of the Soviet front lines, engaging in guerrilla tactics, sabotage, and ambushes. The goal was to wear down the Soviet forces by disrupting their logistics and morale, rather than engaging in direct, large-scale battles.

The kastelutoimien units were typically composed of volunteers from the Finnish population, who were trained in guerrilla warfare and sabotage techniques. They operated independently of the main Finnish Army units, moving freely through the Soviet rear areas and striking at Soviet targets with precision and surprise.

The kastelutoimien strategy was a significant factor in the Finnish Army's ability to hold out against the Soviet Union for nearly two years during the Winter War. It also played a role in the Continuation War, although the strategy was less effective due to the Soviet Union's increased resources and manpower. The kastelutoimien units were eventually disbanded in 1944, as the Finnish Army was forced to retreat from the Soviet Union.