Finland removes swastika from military symbols

The Finnish Air Force has decided to discontinue the use of the swastika on the flags of its units. The symbol, which has been visible on Finnish aircraft since 1918, is gradually disappearing due to its problematic perception in today's world, especially after its misuse by Nazi Germany.

Colonel Tomi Böhm, the new commander of the Karelian Air Fleet, explained that this was not a political decision, but a step intended to avoid embarrassing situations with international partners such as NATO allies.

However, he admitted that the reform is not yet complete and it is unclear when exactly the swastika will disappear from all flags, reports the portal Novinky.cz.

The Finnish swastika flag originally had a different meaning—it was used as a good luck charm and symbolized the fight for freedom during the Soviet Union's attacks. Its origin dates back to an airplane gifted in 1918 that bore the coat of arms of Count Erik von Rosen.

(novinky.cz, mja)